Introduction period (a.k.a. 'Afroei')
Why join the Afroei? Would you like to meet new people, stay active alongside your studies, and experience everything student association life at Pelargos has to offer?
Then the Afroei is the perfect way to get to know rowing, the association, and student life in The Hague. In just five weeks, you’ll discover whether Pelargos is the right fit for you while making memories, building new friendships, and becoming part of a close-knit group together with fellow Afroei participants.
H.S.R.V. Pelargos organizes two introductory rowing periods every year. The autumn Afroei kicked off on Monday, September 7, 2026, but registration is still open. Still want to join? We have more than 100 sign-ups, and the sign-up deadline is Sunday, September 20th 23:59PM
The weeks are packed with activities: from a pub crawl, rowing trainings, to weekly dinner and drinks at the association every Thursday. Not only will you get to know the association, but you’ll also build strong connections with your fellow participants.
At the end of the Afroei, you’ll compete in the final races for the title of Afroei Champion. A great way to wrap up five weeks full of new experiences, challenges, and fun.
After these five weeks, you’ll have a good understanding of rowing, the association, and student life in The Hague at Pelargos. This will allow you to make an informed decision about whether Pelargos is the right place for you and whether you’d like to become a member.
Please note: the sign-up deadline is Sunday, September 20th 23:59PM
Why join?
At H.S.R.V. Pelargos, rowing is more than just a sport. It connects people, challenges you, and gives you a close-knit group to rely on during your student years.
Right now is a particularly special moment to join. We are on the verge of completing our brand-new Rowing centre Binckhorst and the start of our fifth lustrum, Aurora. As a new member, you become part of a new generation within the association and start building from day one on a remarkable year. This means a year full of growth, new facilities, and a lustrum year filled with activities and special events.
In addition, you will not only become part of Pelargos’ network in The Hague, but also of the wider student rowing network in the Netherlands. A community that offers you friendships, opportunities, and experiences during your student years, and often long beyond them; that you won’t find anywhere else.
What are we organizing?
Right now, everything is centered around the Afroei period, which kicked off on Monday, September 7! This is a five-week introduction where you learn the basics of rowing and get placed directly into a fun crew.
Throughout these five weeks, your crew will experience it all: from rowing practices and a pub crawl to weekly dinners and drinks at the clubhouse every Thursday. You will be guided by experienced members and discover step by step what Pelargos and student life in The Hague have to offer. Did you miss the kick-off? No problem: registration is still open, and you can still jump right in and join a crew!
When does this happen?
Afroei period: September 7 to October 14 (Sign-up deadline is Sunday, September 20th)
Don’t want to miss anything?
Join the Pelargos WhatsApp Interest Group and follow us on Instagram!
Excited? Sign up now for the introductory rowing period:
Your student life begins at Pelargos!
Your student years should be about more than lectures and laptops. They’re a time to grow! Socially, athletically and personally. Rowing is our driving force: training together, achieving together, and building friendships that last.
Founded in 2002 by members of C.S.H.H. Pallas Athene, Pelargos gives students in The Hague a place to develop and feel at home. That mission still drives us today, and we’re still growing. With the upcoming Rowing Centre Binckhorst, future generations will have an even better place to chase their sporting and social ambitions.
Even in our short history, we’ve already made our mark: from winning first-year competitions to producing an Olympic rower. At Pelargos, we dream big, and work even harder to make it happen.
Pelargos is a home base: a safe, welcoming space where friendships form that last far beyond your student years. Perfect for anyone looking for challenge, fun, and a place to be themselves.
Ready to take the next step?
Dive into student rowing and make your student years the best time of your life.
Rowing
Rowing is the biggest student sport in the Netherlands! Make the most of your student years by combining unforgettable social events with an exciting sport. Don't worry if you've never rowed before, everyone can learn. By taking up rowing, you'll make sure you get the very best out of your student life!
New building
We are in the process of building a stunning new rowing center. A state-of-the-art facility with the latest amenities.
Will we see you soon, enjoying drinks in our brand new clubhouse and making use of the finest sports centre in The Hague?
Association life
At Pelargos, rowing is just the beginning. You’ll also get to fully enjoy student life! During our weekly association night, there’s a dinner followed by drinks. You can also join committees to develop both yourself and Pelargos.
Come experience the atmosphere for yourself at one of our open activities!
Frequently asked questions
The introductory period costs €39,99 euros. Included is entrance to all activities, access to all basic sport equipment, insurance, and a meal + welcome drink on every Thursday evening during the association night.
Internationals are very welcome in our association! Currently, about 20% of our members are from abroad.
At Pelargos, there is no hazing for potential members. Instead, you are expected to attend the welcome introduction weekend where you’ll get to know the association and your cohort well! During this time, you’ll also learn about the traditions of rowing in the Netherlands and the unique traditions that define Pelargos. Social safety is a top priority for us, so there is always a social safety contact person present during the weekend. If you’re unable to attend the weekend, please inform the board.
Yes! Exchange students are absolutely welcome at Pelargos.
Since 2026, we offer a special membership type specifically designed for exchange students. You can choose between a 3-month or 6-month membership instead of the standard annual option.
To be eligible, you’ll just need to provide official documentation confirming your exchange at a Dutch institution.
Every Thursday evening, the members of H.S.R.V. Pelargos gather at the clubhouse of RV de Laak. We share a meal together while enjoying a drink.
A basic membership costs €360 euros in your first year. If you join in the spring, the fee is reduced to €180 euros. Payment in installments is possible!
For exchange students, pricing is adjusted based on the chosen exchange membership duration (3 or 6 months). Please note that installment payments are not available for exchange memberships.
No! You can become a member in the year you turn 18. However, you’ll need to hold off on drinking alcohol until you turn 18.
Contact details:
H.S.R.V. Pelargos
Postbus 63473
2502 JL Den Haag
T: 070-4457871
E: Info@pelargos.nl
Boathouse:
Cruquiuskade 10
2521 EA
Den Haag
Office:
Johanna Westerdijkplein 67
2521EN
Den Haag