Whilst loafing about after completing undergrad, I volunteered / fell into working with some students at Rice University.    The programme definitely started out as a shake-n-bake operation, storing the shells in two shipping containers pushed together.  We started on some little creek in Sugar Land, TX, that carried a prohibition on motor launches.  How the fuck can you coach a crew without a launch?    This was at time when rowing was experiencing growth in Texas, so momentum and support from other clubs helped us along. 

This is the Men's Novice Open 4+ that I coached.  It was the only boat that seemed to have some potential.  They medalled (bronze) at Heart of Texas.  This was Rice's first competitive regatta, the first race for these guys, and my first experience as a coach.   They're lane 3.

The program continues, but relocated to a legitimate rowing club,  with real equipment and launches.  They've grown nicely & even got an entry at Charles! 

Their site: