New forum for panel of young rowers

An exciting new forum for would-be members of British Rowing’s new Young Persons’ Panel (YPP) took place on Saturday 3rd November at Imperial College in South Kensington, London.

The YPP has been set up as part of a recent review of the structure of the National Governing Body.  The panel’s purpose is to promote and develop rowing for young people in the 16 – 25 years age group with the intention that the group will be representative of a whole range of rowing activity.  Simon Dickie, Youth and Community Manager said that the organisers have been delighted with the response and the enthusiasm of all those who had been able to attend.

Ben Hunt-Davis, Olympic gold medallist, was guest speaker for the day.  He told the group that they should think about what it was they wanted for the sport and to stick with their goals – even if they don’t happen straight away.  Ben rounded up a busy day of listening and exchange of ideas, and picked up on some of the key themes discussed.  These included how the image of the sport can be portrayed by young people for young people, how basic skills and technique can be developed and how  links between schools and universities can be enhanced.

The forum provided a kick start to the work of the Young Person’s Panel – bringing together almost 40 young and very enthusiastic people to hear more about the plans for the sport and give their views on what are the key areas from their perspective which need more development.

The venue gave an educational feel to the day – the organisers and young people were all learning something and meeting lots of new people.  As the panel is formed it is hoped that this first forum can help to build a wider network to help support the panel in taking forward some of the ideas.

Lexy Wood, Leeds RC, said  “It has been a very inspiring day and it was a great opportunity to meet everyone and hear their different views and ideas, and discuss how we as youth can participate in the sport’s future development.”

Theo Bakker from St Paul’s School said “I want to say a huge thank you for organising such a well structured and thought provoking day. I really enjoyed myself, and I know that the friends that I went with did too. I hope that the ideas we came up with provide some food for thought, and I look forward to keeping in touch.”