Orlando Area Rowing Society (OARS) is running a program just for Middle Schoolers!  No experience necessary.  New rowers can join anytime.  Our focus is on learning proper rowing technique, safety on the water, teamwork and having fun!  The Middle School Program will be coached by an experienced high level coach, who will make learning fun while teaching a unique skill!

The OARS Middle School Program functions to provide a positive experience in rowing and prepares athletes for our (winning) competitive high school program.  Over the 20 year history of OARS, we have developed extremely competitive boys and girls crews that compete both locally, at States and Nationally.  We have room for just 40 students.  Practice is limited to two days per week - Thursday 4:45pm-6:45pm and Saturday 9:30am-11.30am.  First come first served, then your name will be placed on a waiting list.

The program consists of two sessions: one in the Fall (Sept 9 - Nov 13) and one in the Spring (mid February - mid April) attendance at both sessions is optional but highly recommended.  Each session lasts 9 weeks.  The end of each session will be marked with a Final Fun Day, where athletes will race and enjoy a potluck awards ceremony!  Middle School rowers will not travel to regattas but will be exposed to inter-program competition and scrimmages (informal regattas) with crews at the same level from other clubs.  We offer opportunities to race each session.

Rowers are encouraged to wear athletic shorts that aren't too baggy, t shirts, socks, running shoes, and to bring a water bottle.  We practice indoors at our facility when it is raining, very windy, or too cold to safely row on the water (or we may have makeup days at the Program Director's discretion). Whether your primary interest is in fun, fitness, curiosity, or competition you will fit right in!

If you know a Middle School boy or girl (entering 6th Grade or currently in 7th, 8th Grade) who would enjoy spending a couple days a week out on the water on Lake Down - register using the link below, make sure you register early, before the 40 spots fill up!

Each session is 9 weeks long, includes a FREE OARS T-SHIRT and costs $350.00 - see Middle School Program Fees for full details.  (click here for details.)

IMPORTANT! Once you've registered and reserved your spot online, you'll need to download and complete our Middle School Registration Forms Packet located on the Forms & Docs page under the heading 'Middle School Forms'.  Forms must be turned in on or before the first day of the session if you wish to attend!  First come first served, then your name will be placed on a waiting list. 

For more information on joining the Middle School Program or to sign-up now, email the Program Director, Nick Delaney.  If you are ready to sign-up now, please include your name, school, grade year and contact information.