U17 & Up High Performance Rowing Pathway 

Rowing is a late-entry sport where powerful and driven athletes can excel. At the highest level, it demands length, strength, fitness, and resilience. At every level, it offers lifelong fitness, strong community, and the pursuit of competitive excellence.

The Regina Rowing Club is recruiting U17 & Up athletes new to the sport for our High-Performance Pathway Program. This program is led by Provincial Head Coach - South, John Wetzstein, who brings over 30 years of high-performance coaching experience and a history of podium results nationally and internationally.

Athletes can enroll immediately or begin through our Spring–Summer Learn-to-Row program, which includes three novice racing opportunities in Saskatoon, Calgary, and Regina. Fill out the form below to set up an assessment (assessment and initial instruction on the erg is free of charge).

  • Assessments will be 45 min in length and completed on weekend afternoons at a time convenient for you. Athletes will begin with basic measurements of height and wingspan, as these are important physical indicators in rowing.

    They will then complete two performance tests:

    • Medicine Ball Throw – This test evaluates power and coordination by assessing how effectively an athlete can generate and transfer force in a movement pattern similar to rowing, without requiring rowing experience.

    • RPM Step Test (Air Bike) – Using a full-body air bike (such as a Schwinn Airdyne or Assault Bike), this test measures aerobic capacity and overall cardiovascular fitness.

    Following the assessments, athletes will receive an introduction to the fundamentals of the rowing stroke on a Concept2 rowing ergometer.

  • Our high-performance assessments measure the key physical qualities required for success in rowing including strength, power, and aerobic capacity in a way that is fair and accessible to athletes from all sporting backgrounds.

    Since many athletes are new to rowing, we do not use the rowing machine in initial testing. Erg results can be influenced by technique and experience, which may not accurately reflect true athletic potential. Instead, we use standardized athletic tests that evaluate physical ability without the barrier of rowing-specific skill.

    • Avoid vigorous exercise for at least 12 hours before testing.

    • Eat a normal meal with an emphasis on carbohydrates the night before testing, and if possible, during the day of testing.

    • Avoid a heavy meal 3–4 hours before testing; a light meal is fine.

    • Avoid alcohol for 24 hours prior to testing.

    • Avoid caffeine for at least 6 hours before testing.

    • Stay well hydrated and bring a water bottle.

    • Wear suitable clothing and shoes, such as running shoes, a T-shirt, and shorts.

    • Inform coach of any injuries or illnesses.

    • Ensure necessary forms are completed.

To Sign Up For An Assessment and Meeting with John, SRA Provincial Coach - South, Please Fill Out Form

Club Cancellation Policy 

Changes or cancellations will be accepted up to five business days before the start of the program or first class, and are subject to a $50 administration fee. NO refunds or changes will be permitted five business days prior to the start of class.