Dragon boat is a sport that demands both physical fitness and mental stamina. Throughout the season, we will provide the proper training and help develop the necessary skills to become a successful Dragon boat paddler. More importantly, you will learn the Dragon boat paddling techniques used by some of the top teams in Canada. Training with the New Dragons will maximize your Dragon boat potential and performance.
New Dragons encourage committed and passionate members to join us throughout the fall semester. If you are interested, you should join this season’s Facebook page for more information on how recruitment works and latest updates to our events! We highly recommend you to visit our many booths during Frosh Week and come to our Information Nights!
New Dragons takes training seriously, but we also stay balanced by blending in a solid dose of fun. When you join this team, you’ll participate in a number social events, ranging from our annual retreat to Hart House farm, to fundraising events throughout the season, to sporadic biking trips to unpredictable destinations!
A large part of team culture relates to our weekly trainings and practices. Feel free to come to any of our practices to train with us, and see if New Dragons is the right team for you. You can find a schedule in our training section.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Dragon boat?
Dragon boat Racing is the oldest continually raced sport in the world, originating in the 4th century BC on China’s Mi Luo River. Imported to the West in the mid 1980’s, Dragon boat racing has since become the second most popular sport in the world captivating people both with its competitiveness and sense of community.
In a 40 foot long boat with a sculpted dragon head and tail, twenty men and women paddle in a synchronized rhythm to outlast their competitors. In addition to the adrenaline rush from the race, dragon boating also fosters a strong bond between teammates and other teams which is unmatched in any sport.
How does recruitment work and how do I join?
The recruitment season runs from our first Saturday practice in September to January, when the new roster is decided. You can join our recruitment Facebook group to receive the detailed information on recruitment process and training. There will be two mandatory fit tests that determines who makes the team; the first test in October and the second in January.
Can I join if I’ve never worked out before?
Definitely! The fantastic thing about our training sessions is that they can work for veteran gym go-ers, but can also be altered for anyone’s first time at the gym. Our training directors have worked night and day creating the best training schedule catered to dragon boating and are well capable of adjusting workouts to fit the needs of any athlete. Plus, you’ll be able to learn how to work out effectively and meet friends to go to the gym with!
Do I need previous dragon boat experience?
No experience is needed whatsoever. Many of our paddlers start their dragon boating experience with the New Dragons.
Can I join if I’m not part of New College or U of T?
Yes! Our team is quite diverse and consists of students from the Faculty of Medicine to students from Ryerson, McMaster, and more! Everyone is welcome to join the New College New Dragons.
What is the commitment level?
We’re looking for hoping for a minimum of two training sessions a week: one weekday training slot and the Saturday land practice. Although these are not mandatory, they are the best way to ensure getting a spot on the team.
How long is the season?
From the first day of training in September all the way to early-mid August, depending on the date of the final regatta. Dragon boat is a summer sport, so dry land training will take place until mid-late April when water practices begin.
How much does it cost?
You’ll have to find out later in the year. However, New Dragons has one of the lowest expenses compared to our competitors.
Do I need to know how to swim?
No. Some of our veterans don’t either, they just double on life jackets on rough days in the boat.
Why should I join New Dragons?
We are one of the fastest teams in Canada and the world. Not only that, we’re a family that likes to have fun and eat lots of food!
Have more questions?
For more information about New Dragons send us an e-mail at nc@newdragons.com or join the New Dragons 2019-2020 Facebook page for updates about recruitment and the season!