A BRCC certified steersperson is responsible for the safety of the dragon boat, crew, equipment, and for enforcing the BRCC Operating Rules. The steersperson directs the operation of the dragon boat and is responsible for dock safety and security. Steersperson candidates must demonstrate knowledge of the BRCC Operating Rules and pass the on the water proficiency test to be fully certified.

A BRCC certified steersperson needs to show evidence of “on the water” steering skills as well as good decision making and communication skills while steering and navigating the waters in the Berkeley Marina.

All potential Steers must take and pass the online Dragon Boat Steers Test.

In most cases steers-in-training practice on the water steering for a minimum of 40+* hours under the guidance of available certified steers who are responsible for the steers-in-training.

Current Lead Steers:
Lawrence
Donald
Judy
AL
Ray
Regine
Tristan
Si Si
Berman
Henry
John
Susan

When Lead Steers have observed the on water training of a steers–in-training for several hours of practice, they will recommend to the group of Lead Steers that a steers-in-training is ready to be assessed for certification. Practice includes steering in a variety of weather and light conditions, as well as on different boats.

*Exception to this requirement would be experienced steers coming from other teams who will not be required to log the 40+ hours.

As one becomes more skilled in steering and logs time steering at practice – Lead Steers (those able to certify) will ask you to show competency in various maneuvers in and around the marina.

Below is Rubric #5, the highest rubric, necessary to get certified as a steersperson.

Maintaining a Straight Line
Steersperson maintains constant control, and steers an impeccably straight line for the entirety of a race.

Maintaining Constant Distance
Steersperson is able to maintain a constant lateral distance with boats on either side. Communicates clearly with other steerspeople when necessary in order to maintain safety.

Course Correction
When a loss of control is simulated, the steersperson has a variety of methods for regaining control and make the calls clearly, decisively, and quickly. When appropriate, the amount of time spent not moving is minimal.

Lining up in Lane
Steersperson correctly accounts for drift and can place the boat in such a way that it slowly drifts into the lane. Steersperson points the nose into the wind until the last minute, when they straighten the boat out.

Resetting
The steersperson has a variety of methods of resetting lane position (e.g. moving to the left or to the right within a lane at the start line), and can use them appropriately based on the circumstances. The steersperson can make effective use of their paddlers when needed.

Turns
The steersperson can make use of their paddlers in order to make hard, tight turns when necessary, and maintains control throughout the turn.

Reversing
The steersperson can back up confidently, maintaining full control of the boat and awareness of surroundings, including potential future threats. The oar never gets stuck in the water.

Stopping
The steersperson can make a hard stops on demand. The steersperson can also make use of left holds or right holds in order to simultaneously alter the direction of the boat when stopping, and can do so in an emergency situation.

Docking
The steersperson approaches the dock at an appropriate speed and angle, accounting for wind and drift. They can use effective use of their paddlers, as needed, and park the boat in tight spaces under a variety of situations.

Undocking
The steersperson consistently chooses among the safest and most efficient paths, even in strong winds. Commands are clear and timely. The steersperson maintains awareness of all potential dangers.

Traffic Negotiation
The steersperson consistently positions the boat in safe situations, noting and avoiding potential danger well in advance. The steersperson communicates clearly and professionally with other people of interest in the marina, including other steerspeople, as needed. In the case of an unexpected on-the-water hazard, the steersperson acts swiftly and appropriately.

Safety Commands
The steersperson has complete command of the full repetoire of safety commands and calls them clearly and audibly.

Presence
The steersperson has firm control of the crew at all times. The crew respects and is comfortable with the steersperson.