ABC Juniors Program

Our Program

Arkansas youth now have an opportunity to row in the Capitol City. Metro area high school student athletes are invited to join the Arkansas Boathouse Club Juniors program for fun, fitness, and competition. Our pilot program from fall 2011 has progressed nicely from learning to row in October, competing at the Head of the Hooch in November, and working hard through winter conditioning to compete at Tulsa's Route 66 Regatta in April. In fall 2012, the ABC Juniors compete at the Head of the Oklahoma in OKC on September 29th and the Head of the Hooch in Chattanooga, TN on November 3rd. In spring 2013, Juniors will continue training to improve their standings over the previous year at Tulsa's Route 66 Regatta at the end of April 2013.

Youth crew provides student athletes an opportunity to participate in a sport that encourages physical conditioning, teamwork, and organized competition for young men and women. Our athletes practice through the school year and will compete in both fall and spring race seasons. Practices are usually four times each week for 60-90 minutes. Adding another activity to an already busy schedule can be a challenge. Our students learn to balance both academic and athletic goals. The lessons of time management, concentration, endurance, dedication, and camaraderie are lifelong and invaluable.

Unlike other major sports at high schools, in Arkansas rowing is considered a club sport. As such, ABC receives no local or state funding from the school system. We rely solely on member families, friends, and the community for financial support. This club belongs to the community and as such we encourage participation from any and all individuals interested in exploring all that rowing has to offer.

Rowing is a relatively expensive sport which requires lots of equipment and organization. ABC is cost conscious and makes every attempt to keep fees to a minimum for families. If you have a viable fundraising opportunity or would like to donate to our 501c3 club for a tax deduction please contact us at your convenience.

We have an enthusiastic group of volunteers. From washing boats to pouring concrete, it takes a village to accomplish such an ambitious program.   The ABC Board of Directors meets monthly to make decisions regarding the smooth functioning of the club. Parent and member volunteers play a crucial role in our organization. Without their efforts, our students could not train and compete in this sport. 

Currently we have student athletes from Mount Saint Mary Academy, Little Rock Catholic High School, Episcopal Collegiate, and Parkview High School. If your school would like an opportunity to develop physical talents and competitive spirit while learning teamwork and enjoying the sport, contact youth crew coach Yates Phillips to find out how by calling FiveZeroOne 837.3779 or emailing  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Are You Ready for a Challenge?

If you are considering joining the Youth Program, here are the opportunities to get involved.

1 )To get started immediately, show up to practice before September 1st. Before getting on water an orientation must be completed accompanied by a prior swim test.

2) Sign up for Fall Training and continue reading to find out more. 

Why Should You Join ABC Juniors?

High school graduates have an opportunity to continue rowing at the college level.  There are a number of colleges that have scholarships are available for promising student rowers, especially women.

ABC has qualified paid and volunteer coaches who want to provide the best experience and opportunity for rowers in Arkansas. Our club has the opportunity to compete in regattas around the region which are always a fun and rewarding experience. The club is a supportive community which provides high school students an opportunity to socialize with students from other area schools. Our youth gain leadership and discipline needed for success in life. While preparing for competitive races is a challenge, rowers get a great sense of accomplishment from growing stronger and becoming better conditioned for races.

For more Information visit our FAQ for frequently asked questions. 

ABC Juniors Crew Coach, Yates Phillips

An Arkansas Native from North Little Rock, Yates first began his rowing career when ABC reformed in 2006. During his years with the ABC masters crew he competed six consecutive years at the Head of the Hooch and other regional regattas in MO and OK. He attended the recent Level Two U.S. Rowing Coaching Clinic in Waco, TX. By the time he completes his Level Two certification this summer he will be the only person in Arkansas to hold this accreditation.

During his years at LR Catholic High Yates was on the MCJROTC drill team, the physical fitness team, starred in annual musicals and all-region choir. He served terms as Lodge and Section Chief of the Order of the Arrow's SR-3B. He's a Vigil Honor recipient of the Founders Award and Eagle Scout. He logged nearly a thousand miles over several backpacking excursions at the Philmont High Adventure Base and worked as a guide for canoeing trips in the Boundary Waters of Northern Minnesota.

Yates lives with his wife Jessica at their home in North Little Rock with their west highland terrier, Gracie.

His days away from the Boathouse are spent honing his engineering skills for CenturyLink. In his spare time, he enjoys racing with the Grande Maumelle Sailing Club, bowhunting, and cycling.

Contact Coach Yates Phillips at FiveZeroOne 837.3779 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .