Brisbane Schoolgirl Rowing Association set to start its season
The Brisbane Schoolgirl Rowing Association will steam ahead toward hosting its traditional Head of the River, but with one major difference.
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The Brisbane Schoolgirl Rowing Association will host a “normal as possible’’ season, including the annual Head of the River, next month.
But competition across a compact four weekend season will have to go ahead without spectators due to COVID-19 restrictions.
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Eight of the nine BSRA member schools were full steam ahead in preparations for the season which will start on August 8 and culminate with the August 29 Head of the River.
BSRA executive officer Rachael Kininmonth was delighted the respective school principals “had taken this position and forged ahead with the season’’.
“The overriding messages to me was that they wanted to keep things as normal as possible which shows incredible sensitivity to the kids,’’ Kininmonth said.
Kininmonth said it was a disappointment that the season had to proceed without spectators who added a great atmosphere to the regattas.
But she said the race day atmosphere would still be tremendous for the students, with commentary and presentations.
Kininmonth said the most important thing was the students, particularly the year 12 students in their final year, were able to compete.
“It is the cherry on top for the year 12s,’’ Kininmonth said.
“I am really pleased for them and I am working really hard to make sure it is as normal as possible and we have that wonderful flavour of it being a carnival event.’’
The eight competitions schools will be Brisbane Girls Grammar School, Brisbane State High School, Somerville House, St Margaret’s, St Peters Lutheran College, Lourdes Hill, Stuartholme, All Hallows and St Hilda’s.
BGGS rowing coach Danny Wruck said his crew were “ecstatic to be back on the water’’ this season.
He would have a nice mix of experience from last year mixed in with “a competitive group of younger girls’’.
Asked about the positive energy generated within the college community by news the season would proceed, Wruck said: “I definitely think the re-commencement of the rowing season has had a massive positive influence on student and community morale and wellbeing,’’ he said.
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“Physical activity, outdoor environments and being with friends are all extremely positive influences and add to a well-rounded schooling experience.’’
He said the sport also “brings together girls who may not have much else in common’’.
“The rowing shed is a safe and positive environment in which to pursue a common goal.’’
Wruck said the BSRA competition benefits extended beyond it merely benefiting a students physical health.
“School rowing is a wonderful activity in which to be involved. It is unique in that often, the entire Year 8 cohort may not have had any exposure to the sport before electing to participate,’’ he said.
“Because of this shared starting point, rowing rewards effort and resilience more than most school sporting programs.
“If you are comfortable with making mistakes and learning through tenacity you are capable of anything in rowing. As you progress through to a proficient rower you learn how to manage your time, push your limits and work well in a team. It is truly a sport like no other.’’