Teamwork teaches life lessons

New Lynn’s intermediate rowing crew returning to shore after a dominating performance in their rowing race.

Affectionately known as the ‘Ice Breaker’ Regatta by the New Lynn Sea Scouts, the first weekend of spring saw them head down to Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) for the 46th annual Spring Regatta - a family day of canoeing, rowing and sailing amongst other Scout Groups, Young Mariners and Sea Cadets.
 
The junior rowing race was a great example of highlighting some of what Scouting can offer in the right environment: development of teamwork and growth of self-confidence and belief.
 
New Lynn had two teams in the junior rowing race: one experienced (who comfortably won their race), and a second, very novice crew. Five of the seven crew had never rowed before and for some it was their first time in a boat! Some were conscious their personal lack of experience may impact on other members of the crew in a race environment and it took some convincing to give it a go. Afterall their training would be their row out to the start line!
 
When one of their leaders suggested they would succeed if they treat it as a learning experience, focusing on teamwork (communication and rowing in time) rather than trying to go fast, they were still sceptical.
 
Though they rowed one of the slowest stroke rates during the race, they rowed in time due to good communication and patience, in the end finishing mid-fleet. Their teamwork allowed them to beat other more experienced teams who largely rowed as individuals, their boats struggling to make headway.
 
“As a Scout leader it’s so rewarding to see youth go from self-doubt to realising they can achieve far more than they ever anticipated,” says Andrew, one of the leaders.
 
New Lynn Sea Scouts caters for boys and girls aged 5 - 19 years. Contact Andrew on 027 6939 756 or check out www.newlynn.seascouts.org.nz for more details.