Big Ideas, Bold Voices: Join Us at the 2026 RCA National Conference
- Rowing Canada Aviron
- Jan 9, 2026
Rowing Canada Aviron (RCA) is thrilled to announce the January 23–24, 2026, The Semi-Annual Meeting will follow on Sunday, January 25.
This year’s conference dives into the topics that explore how Canadian rowing can continue to evolve – including how to identify and engage Gen Z athletes. The program features an exciting lineup of keynote speakers and interactive sessions designed to challenge perspectives and spark new ideas.
Leading the speaker lineup is Robert Fegg, Head Coach of the Canadian Luge Team, presenting his keynote session, “Thank You, Athletes: What You Taught Me About Coaching”: Reflections on trust, adaptation, and performance in modern coaching. In this talk, Fegg will explore what is required to coach Gen Z and the ways to build trust, provide clear guidance, and foster challenge to develop resilient, motivated athletes.
Also featured is Erin Davis, Founder of Erin Davis Co., Leadership Strategist, Speaker, and Facilitator, presenting “The Conversation That Changes Everything.” This session explores the concept of the transformational conversation—grounded in the question, What’s the conversation that, if we got it right, would transform how we work together in 2026? Davis will challenge leaders to move beyond avoidance and into intentional engagement, examining how everyday leadership behaviours can either reinforce disconnection or create belonging.
Another conference highlight, Katie Bahain-Steenman, U23 NextGen Coach, and Jana Peachey, U23 National Team athlete, will present “Training and Racing the Canadian Model Technique: Case Study of the U23 Women’s Bronze Medal Eight.” Together, they’ll share how applying the Canadian Model Technique improved cohesion and boat speed in the 2025 U23 Women’s Eight, leading to a World Championship bronze medal. Their session highlights how a shared technical approach builds communication, athlete buy-in, and long-term development for the next generation of Canadian rowers.
Stay tuned for more conference speaker highlights!
Registration is NOW OPEN for the 2026 RCA National Conference. Join us this January as we chart a path forward, united and inspired.
