Power House Rowing Club’s Learn to Row (LTR) and Development Squad Program (DSP) are proving to be an encouraging and motivating pathway for new athletes.
With the benefit of structure and planning led by Head Coach Patrick Rocek and on-the-ground delivery managed by rower and coach Abigail Schlicht, the LTR and DSP programs are becoming a cornerstone of Power House’s ongoing community contribution and club inclusion.
Focussed and Motivating Approach
Since January, nine keen participants have successfully completed the eight-week LTR program. More than half have already chosen to progress into the DSP. With a new group of participants set to begin soon, the newly shaped Programs’ momentum is steadily building.
This momentum has been informed by Abigail’s motivating approach to each of the newly shaped programs. Abigail is now in her eighth season of rowing and has built a strong foundation as a skillful rower and supportive coach. The experience Abigail brings spans club and school environments including time at Melbourne Girls College, where she was awarded “Coach of the Year” in her final 2023 season. Abigail’s current ambitions include trialling for the Victorian State Team and the Australian Open Seniors squad- an impressive goal in a highly competitive sculling field.
Creating Motivation and Community
One of the standout features of the LTR and DSP programs are the enthusiasm of its participants. Abigail notes that the rowers are highly engaged, motivated by both personal progress and the clear pathway into the Squad. To date, the positive feedback from participants comments on Power House’s welcoming atmosphere and the sense of achievement built through the Programs.
Power House’s location and facilities are also playing a key role. The rowing tank, in particular, has proven invaluable in accelerating skill development and giving beginners a controlled space to practise. For Abigail, one of the most rewarding aspects is seeing new faces arrive at the club and grow in confidence and ability.
A Bright Future
With higher levels of well-positioned visibility, strong progression into the Development Squad and a clear coaching philosophy led by our Head Coach, Power House is building more than just rowing skills, it is lifting a thriving community of rowers. And thankyou, Abigail, for sharing your time and expertise - in between university studies, your training load and coaching – with fellow Power House members.
