Breaking Barriers Through Rowing
Dallas United Crew (DUC) is proud to partner with Arshay Cooper, author of A Most Beautiful Thing, to expand access to rowing in South Dallas. Rowing has long been seen as an elite sport, but as Arshay reminds us:“Talent is everywhere, but access and opportunity are not.”
Through RowDallas, we break down barriers by introducing the sport in schools, teaching students to swim and row, and providing transportation, coaching, and scholarships so that no student is left behind.
Since 2019, RowDallas has:
Introduced hundreds of students to rowing on the water through Dallas United Crew
Secured major grants from Dick’s Sporting Goods, the A Most Beautiful Thing Inclusion Fund, and Wingstop Charities to expand access, equipment, and transportation.
Secured non-profit partnership with Hop Skip Impact to insure transportation for students.
Added a dedicated staff member in Coach Flo Elkins to recruit, teach, and inspire student-athletes each week.
Why This Matters
In just the past year, DUC provided $132,689 in financial assistance so that kids from all walks of life could row with us. Together, these young athletes have achieved remarkable success:
Back-to-back Regional & State Champions
2025 U.S. National Championship – a first in DUC’s history
But the impact goes far beyond medals. Rowing teaches teamwork, resilience, and leadership—life lessons that stay with our student-athletes long after practice ends.
How You Can Help
Your gift this North Texas Giving Day helps us ensure no child is denied the opportunity to row.
$199 = One Week Summer Introduction to Rowing
$999 = One Middle School Season
$2,399 = One High School Season
Every contribution helps us build a stronger, more inclusive team that reflects the diversity and greatness of Dallas.
Join us in unlocking the best versions of our student-athletes. Sometimes the greatest lessons are found outside the classroom.