Youth Programs by Azorean Maritime Heritage Society

Overview

The Azorean Maritime Heritage Society (AMHS) proposes a collaborative rowing program with Greater New Bedford Schools, designed to enhance students’ appreciation for Azorean maritime culture, build teamwork and leadership, and promote physical fitness. The program will offer students an enriching and immersive experience on the water by integrating traditional Azorean whaleboat rowing and sailing techniques.

These programs run over the course of one season and offer three different engagement levels based on the number of weekly practices:

Program Objectives

1. Cultural Engagement: Provide students with an introduction to the maritime heritage of the Azores through practical whaleboat rowing, fostering a deep connection to historical and cultural traditions.

2. Physical Development: Encourage the physical well-being of students by integrating regular rowing practices into their weekly schedules, promoting cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and coordination.

3. Teamwork and Leadership: Develop students’ leadership and teamwork skills through coordinated group rowing activities, challenging them to work together toward shared goals. 

4. Maritime Education: Offer educational components focusing on the history of whaling and maritime navigation, fostering a deeper understanding of maritime heritage and its relevance to the local community and beyond.

Eligibility

This program is intended to be free to all the student participants. Funding for the programs will be in ‘sponsorships’ from the community and donations.

• 12-14 years old

• 15 -19 years old

Program Structure

Option 1: One Day per Week 

• Duration: One rowing season (8 weeks)

• Frequency: One practice per week, with each session lasting 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Location: Sessions will take place at Clark’s Cove

• Activities: Instruction will include rowing techniques, maritime history lessons, team-based drills, and on-the-water practical experiences.

Option 2: Two Days per Week 

• Duration: One rowing season (8 weeks)

• Frequency: Two practices per week, with each session lasting 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Location: Sessions will take place at Clark’s Cove

• Activities: Instruction will include rowing techniques, maritime history lessons, team-based drills, and on-the-water practical experiences.

Option 3: Five Days per Week 

• Duration: One rowing season (4 weeks)

• Frequency: Five practices per week, each lasting 1.5 to 2 hours. 

• Location: Clark’s Cove

• Activities: In-depth instruction covering advanced rowing techniques, more comprehensive maritime education, leadership development activities, and frequent on-the-water exercises.

• Additional Benefits: Greater emphasis on fitness, race preparation, and competition readiness for potential whaleboat regattas.

Program Benefits 

1. Unique Educational Experience: The program ties into educating the whole student, offering hands-on learning in maritime heritage, teamwork, and leadership development.

2. Community Engagement: This partnership with AMHS connects students with the local Azorean community, creating opportunities for cultural exchange and local community involvement.

3. Health and Wellness: Rowing is an excellent full-body workout that promotes physical endurance, strength, and mental focus—key benefits for student-athletes.

4. Potential for Growth: The program could expand in future years to include additional opportunities such as local competitions and exchange programs with the Azores.

This rowing program offers a valuable opportunity for Middle and High School students to develop not only physical and teamwork skills but also a deeper appreciation for maritime traditions. The Azorean Maritime Heritage Society is eager to partner with local schools and institutions to make this program a success, creating long-lasting impacts on students’ personal growth and connection to maritime history.