Fleet Management: The Best Tool in the Box

Coxswains play a crucial role in rowing. From keeping the crew safe and motivated, to acting as the tactician on race day, there really is no limit to a coxswain’s capability. However, there’s one particular skill that elevates a coxswain from good to great: fleet management. This under-appreciated art optimises everyday performance and sets the foundation for team success.

“I feel the need—the need for speed!”

Think about elite flying teams like the Red Arrows or U.S. Navy’s Top Gun pilots, performing intricate manoeuvres within inches of one another. Or the synchronised flight paths of birds in migration. What you don’t see? Collisions. Precision and communication keep the fleet in perfect harmony. The same principles apply to rowing. The coxswains objective is ‘to put the boat in the best position to allow the rowers to do their best rowing’. By managing the fleet effectively, staying in clean water and steering clear of collisions, coxswains enable their crews to achieve maximum boat speed and efficiency.

Here’s our tip sheet for mastering fleet management from the coxswain seat:

Tip One: “Talk to me, Goose” – Communication and collaboration: 

Clear, concise communication with other coxswains or steers people is the cornerstone of a slick training session. When crews remain side-by-side, the competitive environment improves, and everyone benefits from more effective coaching. 

• Coordinate adjustments: Use pauses or changes in stroke rate to stay level. Sitting half a length ahead isn’t dominating the session and doesn’t help anyone. Put ego aside and focus on maximising the entire team’s quality of rowing.
• Practice Etiquette: A well-coordinated session depends on mutual respect. Work together to ensure everyone has space to row, turn efficiently, and complete drills without interruptions.

The best coxswains prioritise teamwork over personal victories, creating an environment where the whole squad thrives.

Tip Two: Where is your bow?   

Ask yourself, “where is my bow pointed?” When steering, we need something to aim at, so planning headings and pointing your bow at them allows you to drive the best line for the water that you are on. Identifying clear reference points allows you to hold a steady course and anticipate changes.

• Adapt to the course: As the river turns or conditions change, adjust your headings to maintain an optimal line. Knowing when to hold a heading, and when to let it go and pick up a new one is important.
• Avoid blade clashes: “Your ego is writing cheques your body can’t cash.” – Collisions happen when your bow encroaches on another crew’s water. This lapse in concentration is costly to your boat speed. Maximise your boat speed by looking ahead and keeping your headings true.

Tip Three: “You can be my wingman anytime.” – Parallel Lines

Are you parallel to the shoreline or buoy-line? Whether you’re on a river or buoyed lake, holding the hull parallel to the shoreline or buoy-line will allow you to drive the fastest line for that water. Looking ahead will guide you to understand when you should ignore the shoreline and hold a heading, instead of following the bank into an inlet.  

• Lead by example: The crew closest to the shoreline or buoy line sets the tone for others. By holding a steady, parallel line, you create a guide for nearby crews.
• Ask for space: If you need more room, communicate clearly with other coxswains. The best coxswains share updates about water conditions, debris, and turning plans to maintain a collaborative environment.

Consistent alignment fosters trust between crews and prevents unnecessary tension or accidents.

Tip Four: Visual Sweep

A constant visual scan of your surroundings—from left to right, forward, and behind—gives you the full picture of your positioning and environment.

• In training: Use this information to make real-time adjustments, whether it’s communicating with other crews or adapting to new obstacles.
• In racing: A strong visual awareness lets you anticipate moves from competitors and make strategic decisions under pressure.

Keeping your head on a swivel isn’t just about steering, it’s about staying one step ahead.

Tip Five: “You’re everyone’s problem. That’s because every time you go up in the air, you’re unsafe.” – Predictability

A predictable path makes you a reliable presence on the water. River users should be able to anticipate where your boat is headed. 

• Steer smooth, continuous lines: Sudden changes in direction often signal a lapse in focus or preparation.
• Stay focused: Maintaining consistency in boat movement ensures that you avoid collisions and disruptions.

Predictable coxswains are trusted coxswains. Manage the fleet by staying focused and holding collaborative lines. 

Tip Six: “It’s classified. I could tell you, but then I’d have to kill you.” – The Magic Dust you’re looking for

Fleet management isn’t just a skill—it’s the ultimate strategy. By prioritising consistency, communication, and collaboration, you create an environment where your crew and the entire team can excel. Whether in training or racing, coxing etiquette is a strength, not a weakness, and it’s the Big Cox Energy we’re looking for.

After all, “It’s not the plane, it’s the pilot.” 

Photo: The Winning Cox

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