The coach with no crew
Maadi coaches are often nervous wrecks, but at least one of them is relaxed this year…
A man sitting in the bleachers with the title Coach emblazoned on the back of his top does not seem out of place at the Aon Maadi Cup.
Sam Livingston, who is a former competitor and coach for St Peter’s High School, may still wear his coach’s jacket proudly, but is attending as a spectator this year.
Livingston has worn almost every hat in the rowing profession; competitor, coach, fan and spectator and feels the last position is the most enjoyable.
“You enjoy it (spectating) a lot more. As a coach, you’re a nervous wreck.”
Livingston said St Peter’s dominant performances and reputation were down to coaching.
“He or she has got to have that great balance between being very technical but being very fair on your crews, also incorporating their health and helping with their speed.”
Livingston said while the role of coach is important, it was just as important the rowers remember their training and adapt while on the water.
“You sort of have to trust them to know what they’re doing and pick up on what they’re doing wrong.”
Rowing is a difficult spectator sport as it is performed over a large body of water and often it is hard to tell what was happening.
Livingston said coaches knew what to look for.
“You can’t know exactly what is happening but there are signs to help you understand such as the ‘flash of their blades’ which is used as a gauge of speed.”
