Year in Review: United We Row

This year, through events, scholarships, grants, and leadership initiatives, United We Row brought hundreds of athletes, coaches, and community members together to connect, learn, and create a more welcoming and accessible sport for all.

Scholarships 

• United We Row provided $200,000 to athletes at all USRowing Olympic and Paralympic Development Camps and Selection Camps, and to coaches for continuing education, such as conferences, clinics, USRowing certifications, and ride-alongs.
• 125 athletes received a scholarship for a USRowing camp. 
• Quote from a recipient of a scholarship: “The scholarship will be instrumental in allowing me to pursue my passion for rowing and further develop my skills in the sport. Without financial assistance, I would be unable to attend the camp, and I am grateful for the opportunity to apply for this scholarship. I am excited to continue pushing myself to new limits, both on and off the water, and I believe that the skills and lessons I learn through rowing will stay with me for years to come.” 

Awards 

• For the fifth time since the award’s creation in 2015, USRowing has been named the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee’s recipient of the NGB Choice Award. This year’s award was for the United We Row Grants Program, which has awarded $150,000 over the past two years to rowing clubs that are leading the way in becoming more inclusive and accessible. 

Grants:  

• USRowing awards $80,000 in grants to 16 rowing clubs, supporting over 400 rowers nationwide and expanding access to the sport.
• Announced the Youth Power 20 Fund. A $500,000 endowment funding emerging rowing clubs and programs serving middle and high school athletes.  

Membership Discounts 

• Provided $60,000 for upgrades and waived regatta entries, decreasing financial barriers for athletes and families, decreasing financial barriers. 

UWR Summit 

• We brought together nearly 200 rowing leaders, coaches, and community members over two days to share stories, make meaningful connections, and learn practical strategies to foster inclusion and accessibility within rowing programs.
• 92.5 % of attendees rated the speaker quality a 4 or 5. 

Mentorship 

• 85% of coaches reported improved professional growth and skill development through the United We Row mentorship program, with 90% likely to participate again or refer it to another coach. 
• 85% of participants reported forming lasting professional relationships beyond the program.