Who can join Justice Rowing?
Justice Rowing is open to Justice High School students. No prior rowing experience is required as many of our athletes are brand new to the sport when they join.
Do I need to be strong or in great shape to start?
No. Rowing builds strength, endurance, and fitness over time. Athletes of all body types and athletic backgrounds can succeed. Coaches focus on technique first, with fitness developing throughout the season.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes. All rowers must be able to swim and will be required to pass a basic swim test consisting of four lengths of the pool (any style/stroke) and treading water for 2 minutes. Safety on and around the water is a top priority.
What equipment do I need?
The team provides all rowing-specific equipment, including boats, oars, and shoes.
Athletes should bring:
- Athletic clothing for current weather conditions (fitted — not baggy)
- Sneakers for land training
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Change of clothes, towel, socks, and water-friendly footwear (Crocs, slides, etc.)
Rowers will also learn how to properly care for all team equipment.
When is the rowing season?
Justice Rowing is a spring sport.
- Optional indoor training occurs during the winter
- On-the-water practices start as weather allows in mid-February
- The competitive season runs from mid-March through mid-May, concluding with the Virginia State Championship Regatta.
We do not train year-round.
Where do practices take place?
Early water practices begin on Lake Barcroft Most practices and all regattas are held at Sandy Run Regional Park on the Occoquan Reservoir.
Transportation is provided from Justice to practices at Sandy Run, but families need to provide their own transportation to the Saturday regattas.
How often are practices?
Practices are held after school on weekdays, with occasional weekend regattas during the season. Consistent attendance is important for both individual development and team success.
Can I do other sports or activities?
Rowing requires a significant time commitment during the season. Athletes should talk with the coaches early about any other sports, jobs, or activities so expectations are clear.
What happens if practice is canceled due to weather?
Coaches will communicate schedule changes through the team's established communication channels by 1:00pm. Safety always comes first.
What if I can't afford the fees?
No student is excluded due to financial need. We offer financial aid and payment plans. If cost is a concern, please contact us - we will work something out.
How can parents get involved?
Parents are an essential part of Justice Rowing. Through the Boosters, parents support the team with:
- Equipment and logistics
- Fundraising
- Regattas and team events
There are many ways to help, and no rowing experience is required.
Who are the names behind our local regattas?
Click HERE to know more about the names of our regattas.
Where can I get additional information?
- VASRA — Virginia Scholastic Rowing Association
- USRowing — National governing body
- Sandy Run Regional Park — Our home water
- FCPS Athletics — Fairfax County Public Schools athletics
More questions? Contact us at justicerowing@gmail.com