Rowing can benefit people’s lives in several ways. In addition to having a myriad of fitness and mental health benefits, this activity also helps people to learn new skills and form new friendships. In the opinion of Peter A Derow, rowing clubs must recognize the positive impact rowing can have on the lives of people. They should subsequently try to foster an inclusive environment that allows everyone to get the opportunity to reap the benefits of rowing.
Peter A Derow Marks A Few Steps to Take to Make Rowing Clubs More Inclusive
Rowing was traditionally associated with limited access and a lack of diversity. However, with intentional steps, rowing clubs can evolve into inclusive spaces where people from all backgrounds feel welcome. Being an inclusive club means that it provides everyone with an equal chance to participate and progress, regardless of race, gender, faith, age or any other characteristic. Inclusive clubs are friendly, open, welcoming and committed to making sure that everyone can enjoy the benefits of rowing.
Here are a few steps to take to make rowing clubs more inclusive:
- First of all, one has to consider how and why the club should be more diverse and inclusive, and try to identify the people missing or underrepresented in the membership. It is critical to consider how the lack of diversity can impact the long-term sustainability of the club, and even the sport in general.
- Diversity, anti-racism and inclusion should be made a priority at the rowing club. One must build a consensus around the need for changes and subsequently take action to make the club more equitable and inclusive. Changes should be made to the mission, programs, and practices of the rowing club, rather than just adopting a diversity and inclusion policy.
- A culture of respect should be created and maintained at the club. Its members should be encouraged to educate themselves about the unique challenges faced by female rowers and rowers of colour. Such rowers must get the same positive experience and opportunity to succeed as other athletes at the club.
- Professional development opportunities and educational workshops should be provided to the staff, which are focused on integration, inclusion, cultural competence and cultural diversity. No type of discrimination, disrespect, or exclusionary behaviour should be tolerated at the club.
- In the opinion of Peter A Derow, it would be a good idea to create opportunities for people who do not have any experience in rowing to learn the activity and become members of the club, and the rowing community at large. One may consider hiring a community outreach and inclusion representative who can explore ways to engage the broader community in rowing. This person might not have any rowing experience, but they should have a good understanding of the community one is trying to reach.
Rowing clubs should also consider making their programs more economically accessible. This can be done by creating a scholarship fund, or by providing free or discounted access to existing programs to individuals from under-represented groups at the club. The upfront costs of rowing club membership can be lowered by eliminating initiation fees and creating monthly or quarterly payment programs.
