teamsos.ca - Our Team

Dragon boating is a true team sport where no one person shines. There are many key players on this team, each one having a vital role, all working hard for each other. Timing is key, paddlers must work in perfect unison, 18 paddlers hitting the water at the same time and propelling the boat forward is a thing of beauty – the synchronicity is heath giving and life affirming. Here is a glimpse of a dragon boat team:

Coach
The coach has the task of getting 20 paddlers to get their paddles doing the same stroke at the same time. He is always aware of the variety of levels of strength and stamina throughout the boat and builds practice and race teams accordingly.

Paddler
The remaining 18 seats behind the strokes are seated at the discretion of the coach in order to get optimum performance. They paddle looking forward in order to know the stroke making sure their paddle hits the water in perfect timing with those in front of them - always listening to be aware of time or pace changes.

Strokes
Seated in the front two seats of the boat, the strokes set the pace for the other paddlers. They convert the calls from the coach/steersperson into actual paddling strokes and become the source of timing for the rest of the boat.

Drummer
The drummer is the "heartbeat" of the dragon boat and is seated at the front, facing the paddlers. The drummer makes calls to the strokes when the pace is required to change and beat the drum to the new pace after the change. The drummer and the steersperson relay each others calls to make sure the whole boat is aware of what to do at any given time.

Steersperson
The steersperson will be found standing or kneeling at the back of the boat. It is his/her job to keep the boat on course and is responsible for the safety of the crew and the boat. As the person with the furthest and widest vision of surroundings the steersperson must be aware of conditions around the boat at all times. This person also relays timing calls to the drummer and provides encouragement to the paddling crew.

Captain/Co-Captain
The Captain and Co-Captain are individuals elected by the team to act as team spokespeople. They are the communication link between the Survivors, Support and the Coach.

Supporters
Our supporters are members of our team in a variety of ways. Some paddle with us on the lake and in races; some enjoy cheering us on from the shore; some help out with lot maintenance; others give financially to our cause of awareness and helping others. Some of our supporters participate in fundraising and public awareness events and help in recruiting breast cancer survivors. Whatever the level of support we could not do it without you. Thank you.

Dragon
The symbol of strength and courage. Historically the Chinese believe that dragons are were the guards of treasure.

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