The Scholastic Rowing Association of America and All Kids Play Provide $30,000 in Grants

United We Row is delighted to announce that it has received grants from the Scholastic Rowing Association of America (SRAA) and All Kids Play to support U19 athletes attending USRowing camps this summer. Both SRAA and All Kids Play were interested in serving the most grassroots version of the camps – Youth Development Camp. Breaking down financial barriers allow athletes the opportunity to gain incredible experiences meeting other rowers outside of their home boathouses and take their rowing to the next level.  

“These grants from SRAA and All Kids Play are game changers,” said Jennie Trayes, Chief Community Engagement Officer. “The amount of funds USRowing can give directly to athletes through the United We Row Scholarship program is unprecedented for USRowing. We are so grateful to have partners in the rowing community who believe that financial barriers should not hold athletes back. Thank you for your support.” 

In 2024, USRowing will give away $200,000 worth of United We Row Scholarships to athletes and coaches, $175,000 and $25,000 respectively. This number is up 27% from 2023. These scholarships are part of our ongoing commitment to fostering the next generation of national team rowers by working to eliminate obstacles for athletes and coaches across the country. United We Row, which encompasses all of USRowing’s efforts to make rowing more welcoming and inclusive, includes grants, learning and development, membership discounts, events, and scholarships. Details on the scholarship opportunities can be found here. 

These scholarships offset the cost of the summer camp. A parent of a scholarship recipient athlete said “Your contributions and financial support are playing a pivotal role in opening the doors of this sport to young girls of color and underrepresented minorities. This effort not only enriches the diversity within the sport but also empowers these young athletes by providing them with opportunities to excel and redefine their potential. My family is forever grateful!” 

Scholastic Rowing Association of America (SRAA) Grant:  

$25,000 to support scholarships for athletes who need financial support to attend USRowing U19 programs. 

“SRAA is proud to support our junior rowing community with this grant to USRowing,” said Craig Hoffman, SRAA President.  “Our intent with this grant is to ensure that top junior athletes have the opportunity to attend high performance camps to strengthen their skills and compete internationally. Financial barriers to participation should not be a factor for our nation’s top talent. Our hope is that this grant inspires other rowing organizations to provide similar support, thereby strengthening the USA High Performance pipeline of athletes as we look toward the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles and beyond.” 

The Scholastic Rowing Association of America serves the high school rowing community, including running the Scholastic Championship Regatta.  

All Kids Play Grant:  

$5000 to support scholarships for youth athletes.  

“All Kids Play is very excited to partner with USRowing to support USRowing's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Strategic Plan,” said Jason Schmitz, Executive Director/Founder of All Kids Play. “USRowing's plan to create a welcoming and accessible environment for all members of the rowing community is completely aligned with the values of All Kids Play. All Kids Play is eager to be a part of the strategic growth of rowing in the U.S” 

All Kids Play is a non-profit organization focused on providing financial assistance to families and communities that lack sufficient resources and provide education on safe and healthy sports-related play. Learn more about All Kids Play here.  

About United We Row  

A Seat in the Boat for Everyone: USRowing’s United We Row initiative focuses on supporting rowing programs, coaches, athletes, and anyone interested in advancing the sport of rowing to diversify and grow their programs.  It represents the power of rowing to bridge divides, unite athletes across differences, and push the community forward. 

To support United We Row, donate today, sign the pledge, and sign up for the newsletter.