Safety

In the sport of rowing, there's nothing more important than safety, on and off the water.  Safety comes first in all our activities - training, practice, and competition.  Our coaches are well trained in safety practices and procedures, and ensure that all the team members understand and follow safety rules at all times.  The TC Williams/ACB Safety Manual, one of the most comprehensive in the nation, was renamed in 2007 to honor the memory of John Steve Carbonell Catilo.

Each member of the team must have a valid VHSL physical exam, and pass a swimming test at the beginning of the season.  At the beginning of each rowing season, all rowers and coxswains in youth rowing programs in Alexandria will be given a copy of the Crew Safety Guide. This is a quick reference to some basic safety principles.  It’s a supplement to the training that all participants get at the beginning of the season, and throughout the year – a reminder that safety is everyone’s responsibility.  Each team member signs a form acknowledging that he or she has read the handbook and will comply with safety rules and procedures.

Here are links to additional safety resources on this Web site and others.

• John Steve Carbonell Catilo Safety Manual for T.C. Williams High School Crew and Alexandria Crew Boosters Rowing Programs
• Crew Safety Guide (for team)
• Coaches' launch checklist

• TCW Safety Acknowledgement Form
• VHSL Physical Exam form

• VASRA (formerly NCASRA) Safety Plan
• USRowing safety pages
• Potomac River Safety Committee
• Alexandria Community Rowing Safety Rules