I joined Monkton Combe in September 1999 and quickly learnt that I would be drafted into the rowing team as they only had 7 boys to make a 1st VIII. This was a wonderful opportunity for me and provided me with the greatest memories of my time at Monkton.
After leaving Monkton Combe in 2001 I went to Southampton University where I joined the Boat Club and had three great years, the last of which as Men's Captain. Since leaving University I have been a Physical Education teacher at Shiplake College and have been lucky to coach the J14's. At Shiplake rowing is taken very seriously with at least 4 afternoons of protected rowing training for all year groups, as well as numerous other early morning sessions or lunch time ergos arranged at the coaches' discretion. This commitment that the school has made to high quality training was been rewarded with 3 Gold Medals at this year's National Schools Regatta. This success has been invaluable for the confidence and self esteem of the pupils at Shiplake. I have no doubt that many of the boys will remember their successes on the water for the rest of their lives.
[Tom included here coach's report on the J14's for the 2006/07 Season, which will be included in the internet version of the Newsletter.]