Who We Are
Tyne Amateur Rowing Club is home to one of the most vibrant and successful junior rowing squads in the North East of England. Welcoming young athletes aged 12–18, the squad combines fun, fitness, teamwork and competitive opportunity in a supportive, inclusive environment. Whether a junior wants to simply enjoy a great sport, build confidence and make friends, or push towards national competitions, TARC provides the pathway for them to thrive.
How to Join the Junior Squad
New juniors usually join through our Learn to Row programmes or our two-month induction course. For £50, the induction includes two coached sessions per week and starts with land-based training focused on posture, stroke sequence and fitness. Once key competencies are achieved, juniors progress onto the water. Every young person can attend a free trial session first. The induction can start at any time of year except June, when the squad focuses on national championship preparation. Juniors with prior rowing experience may be able to join the squad directly.
Training & Development
The squad trains year-round, balancing high performance with accessibility for school commitments. A typical week looks like:
• Monday-Thursday: 5:00pm-7:30pm
• Saturday: 8:00am - 12:30 pm
• Sunday: 10:00am - 12:30 pm
Training takes place across the river, the club’s £1 million boathouse, and its ergo and strength facilities. The programme is tailored to each athlete, with age-specific pathways for 14+, 15+ and 16+ rowers aiming for national-level racing. Recreational rowers are equally welcome - everyone trains alongside each other and supports one another’s goals.
Our Coaching Team
The junior squad is supported by a dedicated group of experienced coaches:
• Thomas Jackson – Volunteer Lead Coach & Club Captain
• John Mulholland – Long-time Volunteer Junior Coach
• Holly Bartlett – Paid Coaching Staff
• Luke Michelson – Paid Coaching Staff
• Alex Purves-Liddell – Paid Coaching Staff
This mix of volunteer passion and professional coaching ensures high-quality, consistent support for every young athlete.
High Performance & Competition
TARC juniors regularly compete at major events including the National Schools’ Regatta, British Rowing Junior Championships, and regional regattas and head races across the UK. The squad has produced medallists, GB pathway athletes, and juniors who have gone on to rowing scholarships and top university programmes.
More Than a Sport
Rowing builds confidence, resilience, fitness and leadership. Juniors make lifelong friendships, gain discipline, learn teamwork, and become part of a positive community. The environment is friendly, inclusive and encouraging—everyone is valued, from beginners to future champions.
Why Choose TARC?
• Expert coaching and a recognised development pathway
• Modern boathouse, gym and full fleet of boats
• Options for both competitive and recreational rowing
• Clear progression routes with support at every step
• A fun, positive squad atmosphere
Get in Touch
To join, request a free trial or learn more about the squad, contact Junior Squad Lead Coach & Coordinator, Thomas Jackson and Louise Johnson, at tynejuniors@gmail.com.

