The American Samoa Rowing Association (ASRA) participated in the World Rowing Regional Coastal Level 1 coaching course held in Auckland, New Zealand.
This educational initiative, which began on November 2, 2024, brought together coaches from New Zealand, Tonga, Vanuatu, and American Samoa, advancing skills in Coastal Rowing and Beach Sprints — two thrilling forms of rowing that require unique techniques due to the challenging open water conditions.
ASRA coaches Paula Stevenson-McDonald and Michael McDonald attended on behalf of American Samoa. The course emphasized vital areas of coaching including safety, race skills, and environmental awareness.
Through theoretical and hands-on sessions at Long Bay Beach, participants learned techniques for launching and landing the boats as well as handling capsizes. The rigorous training included a swim and flotation test, practical beach rowing sessions, and assessments to earn the Level 1 certificate.
Coaches also participated in the Coastal Race Module, working alongside Olympians and learning to set up race logistics and manage beach sprint regattas. “This course has better equipped us with the skills needed to improve the performance of our athletes and to hold well-organized regattas,” said ASRA head coach Paula Stevenson McDonald. “We’re eager to apply what we’ve learned and foster a safe, competitive, environment for coastal rowing in our community.”
