Youth Paddlers

Growing Athletes. Developing Leaders. Building the Future of Dragon Boat.

USDBF Youth connects and supports the next generation of dragon boat athletes across the United States. We work with youth athletes, clubs, coaches, parents, volunteers and regional organizations to help create safe opportunities to participate, develop, lead and stay connected to the sport.

Whether you are new to dragon boat, already racing with a club, looking for youth resources or exploring your next step in the sport, this is your place to start.

WHO WE ARE

The USDBF Youth Committee supports the growth and development of youth dragon boat in the United States. Our work is centered on the youth athlete experience and on building stronger connections between athletes, clubs and the four USDBF regions.

We believe youth sport should offer more than a place to compete. It should provide an environment where young people can feel connected, learn responsibility, build confidence, develop leadership skills and discover opportunities to contribute to their teams and communities.

The Youth Committee brings together youth voices and adult support to develop programs, resources and national initiatives that help strengthen youth dragon boat across the country.

International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) Youth Divisions

OUR VISION

A connected national youth dragon boat community where young athletes can participate safely,
develop as leaders, build meaningful relationships and discover pathways to grow within the sport.

YOUTH VOICE MATTERS

 Youth Voices. One Community. In Sync.

In Sync is the USDBF Youth newsletter created to connect the youth dragon boat community through athlete stories, club highlights, leadership, culture and news from across the country.

With youth leadership at its center, In Sync gives young members of our community a space to learn, contribute and celebrate what is happening across USDBF Youth.

Get IN SYNC 

Our goal is not only to develop stronger athletes. It is to help develop engaged, responsible and connected young leaders.

Your Story Is Part of Our Story.

Something exciting happening in your youth dragon boat community?
We want to hear about it.

Submit a story, share youth program photos or help us celebrate a club, athlete, volunteer, milestone or special youth initiative. Selected submissions may be considered for In Sync, USDBF Youth communications, the USDBF website or approved USDBF social media channels.

SHARE:

• A youth athlete or team story
• A club celebration or milestone
• Youth program photos
• A community service or leadership project
• A cultural or educational activity
• A race or event highlight
• A volunteer, coach or youth leader recognition
• A story idea for In Sync
• Another youth dragon boat story you believe should be shared

IN THE BOAT WITH...

Real Conversations. Real Journeys. One Dragon Boat Community.

In the Boat With... is the USDBF Youth conversation series featuring athletes, coaches, leaders, alumni and members of the dragon boat community.Through honest conversations and shared experiences, the series explores athlete journeys, leadership, team culture, college and dragon boat, Team USA experiences, international competition and life beyond the boat.

COMING SOON: Podcast

Contact the Youth Committee

 For Parents

For Athletes