Crew try-outs for Philadelphia public schools
Monday, August 30th, 2010
The upcoming school year will feature a new sport in the Philadelphia school district. Rowing is now available for students at public high schools. The program is attempting to bridge the sport's deeply entrenched class gap.
Libby Peters is the founder of Philadelphia City Rowing. She's also the coach for the girls' team.
"It doesn't matter that you don't have rowing background. Just think about all the athletic experiences where you've had to really push yourself. That's what you've got to do now, OK?"
Most of the girls trying out for the team here have never rowed, and some don't even know how to swim. But they all know how to work.
There are rowing teams at some of the area's expensive private schools. Peters' team – representing the entire School District – will be the first in Philadelphia public schools.
Precious Vogole is a senior at University City High, one of the city's troubled schools. She has never rowed, but says she has a passion for sports.
"It's hard but worthwhile. You really have to push yourself, push past the pain. You can't stop. You have to keep going."
The founder of the program says rowing is particularly good for girls, because many colleges look for female rowers to satisfy their title IX athletic requirements.
Thank you so much Libby! (and patrick of course) You are both amazing coaches. I was so happy I made this team. I've never really been in to sports before and i really wanted to try something new. After the summer session I realized this was my sport and I absolutely love it. Its going to be hard work for us all but so worth it! Can't wait for the season to start!!
I just want to thank Libby first off, she is an excellent coach and I'm proud to be apart of something that is really goning to help us girls earn a spot and not just any spot but a well-respected spot in world of sports. I also want to that Mr. Crimmins for just getting the PCR name out there because this program is an excellent program for people who just want to try something new and excel at it thank you so much!! This is going to be a wonderful experience and I can't wait to see what's in store!!!
I got in! I am thrilled to be able to participate in this wonderful program. I did the two-week camp and loved it. The river was beautiful, the coaches pushed me hard, and the team spirit was fantastic. I hope to do this as hard and long as my body will let me!
Thank you, Libby, for starting this program – it is a dream come true.
Many thanks to Libby Peters and the Schuylkill Navy for getting this program off the ground. LONG overdue- wish it had been around when I was at Girls' High in the 70's.
Thanks for giving this amazing program, both publicity and recognition. As someone who found rowing late in life, it is so true, rowing can and will change your life. Teaching many life lessons,team work,acceptance and appreciation of others. Wasn't sure I would see a program for Philadelphia High School students in my time…thanks Libby for your strength and determination to make this program a reality.
Thank you for this story. The members of the Schuylkill Navy are very proud of Libby Peters, her staff and most importantly the rowers of Philadelphia City Rowing, P C R.
It is long overdue for Philadelphia Public High School students to be rowing and competing on their river.