As East Bay Rowing embarks on its 13th year on the Barrington River, new beginnings are guiding the future of the rowing club. 

Kelsey Gosch has been appointed club director, replacing co-founder Deb Sullivan, who is now serving as president. Gosch, whose background includes high school rowing as well as rowing for her alma mater Wellesley College, is excited about the future for EBR.  

“I am thrilled to take EBR to the next level,” Gosch said. “With the solid foundation we already have and more boats than ever at our disposal, I see EBR becoming an even stronger competitor in local club races. One of my goals for achieving this is to grow our successful youth program.”

Gosch said she wants to continue fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all rowers. 

“Deb and Pat Sullivan built a strong foundation which I’d like to continue to grow,” Gosch said. “It’s a particularly exciting time for us as we will soon have a dock for our use at Walker Farm. This will make launching the boats significantly easier.

“There’s nothing like the quiet of an early morning row - or one at sunset - when the sky is beautiful and the water is flat and calm. It’s so peaceful out there. One of my favorite memories during college was being out on the Charles River (in Boston) watching the sunrise with my peers.” 

East Bay Rowing has opportunities for everyone, even those with no prior experience. Rowing is a sport people can learn at any age from 13 and up. The U.S. Rowing Association requires youth be 13 years old before they can participate.  

“We had a woman take it up after she turned 50 and is totally hooked today,” Gosch said. “Rowing is simply for all ages. It’s an all-body aerobic workout. Yes, it’s hard work, but it’s so rewarding.” 

The club has seen a variety of successful athletes over the years, including youth graduating and going on to row at the college level, adults tackling new challenges, and rowers in both groups competing in the Head of the Charles, the largest 3-day regatta in the world.  

“When it comes to the youth, we’ve had a significant number of rowers go on to row at the collegiate level,” said Gosch. “l am particularly excited about growing our coxswains program. Coxswains are in high demand for us and at the college level. Being a coxswain teaches incredible leadership skills that really are applicable anywhere. We’ve recently had a few who have proven their skills in this area. Some have even earned college scholarships!”  

Summer camp registration recently opened up for youth. Adult registration for spring rowing is open, with summer to follow which will include opportunities for new rowers. For more information, visit eastbayrowing.org or contact East Bay Rowing at dor@eastbayrowing.com