Sport In Profile UK Issue 11 | Page 51

Kingston Rowing rowed and coached at the club since 2008. I moved over from Ireland during the recession, I have coxed and rowed for Ireland at Junior, Uni, U23 and Elite level and I have 2 world medals. I was attracted to Kingston Rowing Club because of the stretch of water, this stretch is nearly always flat calm and perfect for rowing. In my mind this is the best reach on the Thames for rowing. Rowing is in my blood and Kingston was the perfect fit for me. SiP: What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your role? Mike: Being Chairman of a rowing club is very similar to that of a company. I am responsible for running the Committee meetings, encouraging debate, and most importantly encouraging and supporting progress of Kingston Rowing Club by the voluntary efforts of passionate members who hold specific roles. The biggest reward for any captain or coach is winning and watching crews/club develop and grow throughout the season. SiP: How’s the general mood down at the club at the moment? Danny: The atmosphere in the club is very positive. There is no doubt about it the club is really on a high after a good season and some very successful fundraising events. We have a very strong committee and they are now beginning to implement the new Presidents strategy which was agreed and developed by the members nearly 1 year ago. Since I joined in 2008 the vibe over the last year has completely changed and this is down to the committee who are constantly trying to improve the club. What are your plans for the 2015/16 season? Danny: Fundraising has to be one of the main objectives as the club cannot survive without money. I’m also really driving the volunteer coaching for the athletes, without volunteers we have nothing. In terms of rowing the big goals are women’s and men’s Henley and we will be challenging our coaches and athletes to qualify as many boats as possible for these events. We also have a very healthy veteran programme where we hope a lot of them will compete at the National Championships and some of them will go to the Veteran World Championship. SiP: How important development to the club? is youth Danny: The junior programme is definitely the most successful part of our club. I joined the junior coaching squad last year and the junior programme is a www.sportip.biz 51