Coaches help navigate rough times

DALLAS UNITED CREW

By Lisa W. Miller

Throughout the last nine months, Dallas United Crew (DUC) Program Director Steve Perry and his coaches have been successfully navigating the uncharted waters of the global pandemic, from pivoting to virtual training in the spring to cautiously and methodically re-opening the Dallas United Crew boathouse in the summer providing youth athletes the opportunity to get back on the water safely.

DUC Program Director Steve Perry making connections every race, every athlete, every time. (Photo taken in 2019 pre-Covid)
Photo courtesy of DUC

Today, more than ever, DUC coaches are doing more than just coaching. When asked to describe the DUC program, rowers say that DUC is “home,” “family” and “an opportunity to be a part of something bigger.” Coaches provide stability in an unstable world and a sense of hope and belonging for student athletes, while rowing provides a much-needed opportunity to be outdoors, stay active and to socialize safely.

DUC rowers are thankful and appreciative for all the hard work and dedication of their coaches, especially now, helping them manage through these uncertain times. 

Senior Bry Wilder said, “Something that I really appreciate about Coach Amanda is that she wants everyone to do well and is working to help everyone reach their goals.”    

While this year has seen many challenges, the DUC program has experienced unprecedented growth as a result of many athletic seasons being canceled and home-bound students looking for a break from their computers. Dallas United Crew’s spring season starts on January 11. Visit DallasUnitedCrew.org for more information. 

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