News

Posted: 09 April 2025

The Scottish Rowing Young People’s Panel (YPP) will be a dynamic and influential group of young individuals who are passionate about shaping the future of rowing in Scotland. The panel will provide a platform for young voices to be heard, empowering them to contribute to the development of the sport at a national and club level.

Structure and Commitment

Participants will be appointed for a two-year term and will join a national panel composed of young people (aged 14-18) from across the rowing community in Scotland. The panel will meet four times a year to discuss key topics and drive meaningful change within the sport. Beyond these meetings, panel members will have the opportunity to engage in smaller, focused working groups, which will concentrate on specific areas of development within Scottish Rowing.

Areas of Focus

The working groups will be guided by the priorities identified by the panel, ensuring that young people are shaping the future of rowing in ways that matter most to them.

These focus areas may include, but will not be limited to:

• Event Planning – Enhancing competitions and participation opportunities.
• Club Support – Strengthening the network of rowing clubs across Scotland.
• Coach Development – Improving access to training and mentorship for coaches.
• Inclusion & Diversity – Ensuring rowing is welcoming and accessible to all.
• Athlete Wellbeing – Promoting mental and physical health within the sport.

Panel members will collaborate to set key objectives and work towards achieving them throughout their tenure.

Impact and Support

The Young People’s Panel will be at the heart of Scottish Rowing, directly reporting to the Board. This will ensure that the voices of young people help influence decision-making at the highest level.

To support their work, panel members will receive guidance and mentorship from Scottish Rowing staff and Board Members, particularly those with expertise in the chosen development areas. However, they will also have access to the wider Scottish Rowing community, ensuring they are fully supported throughout their journey.

Why Join?

Being part of the Young People’s Panel will offer a unique opportunity to:

• Develop leadership and teamwork skills.
• Influence the future of rowing in Scotland.
• Network with key figures in the sport.
• Gain experience that supports personal and professional growth.

The Scottish Rowing Young People’s Panel will be a vital initiative, ensuring that the perspectives, ideas, and aspirations of young rowers are at the forefront of shaping the sport for generations to come.

How to apply?

There are three parts to the application:

Part One
Either send us a personal statement (roughly 300words) or submit a video* stating why you wish to become involved in the Young People’s Panel to YPP@scottish-rowing.org.uk

Part Two
We would like you to provide a name and contact (email or phone number) of a responsible adult from your club to be your reference. This can be a coach, committee member, or another parent as long as they are part of the club and over 18. Please make sure to ask if they are happy to be your reference first.

Part Three
Once we have received your email/video we will send you a Parental Consent Form for your parent/guardian to complete.

Check out the Recruitment Pack for more information on eligibility. 

*To submit a video please see our How To Guide

If you have any questions or want to gain more information, please contact us at ypp@scottish-rowing.org.uk