About Us

Leatherneck Warriors Dragonboat Team

A Grand Masters Team in The Villages, Florida

A Message From Our Captains

"We are proud to lead a team of neighbors who come together to train, to compete, to support each other and to give back to our community. The Leatherneck Warriors Team represents over 70 Villager-athletes age 53 to 85.

There are few things better than starting the day on the water surrounded by friends paddling in sync. We paddle together to build our bodies, strengthen our mental toughness and prepare to win races.

We welcome experienced paddlers and newbies to join the team. Our experienced team members provide basic training and help bring out the best in every athlete. We welcome all Villagers to our family- a family that comes from the northernmost to the southermost parts of the Villages.

We hold practice and training events 6 days per week to give scheduling flexibility to team members. And we look forward to paddling on Eastport Lake when it opens. Come see what dragonboating is all about with the Leatherneck Warriors. Ooh-rah!"

Team Captains: Ken Loomis, Matt Weinstein and Robin Lockerby at Lake Miona

Our History

The Leatherneck Warriors Team traces its roots to 2007 when a group of retired military veterans connected with a dragonboat team in Tavares called One Fun Crew. With their help and the leadership of retired Marine Colonel Lee Cerovac, the team began training, competing and spreading the word throughout the Villages that competitive Dragonboating was here. By 2010, dragonboating was a growing activity in the Villages, leading to the formation of the Grand Masters Dragon Boating Club as an overarching governing body to manage practice time, boat availability and to ensure safe training for the Village teams. The Grand Masters has grown to eight teams and more than 300 paddlers.

The Leatherneck Warriors have competed throughout Florida, the Southeast US, Canada, Europe and Asia. With team members age 50 to 85, we compete in Class B, C and D divisions. Over the years, we have added a calendar full of races and charitable events focus primarily on our military roots.

2008 Warriors Team Photo

Why We Compete

Physical Fitness and Health: excellent full-body workout that enhances cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, and improves endurance. Paddling engages the core, arms, shoulders, and back, providing a balanced workout that can improve overall fitness.

Teamwork and Camaraderie: The sport is built on strong team dynamics. Paddling in a dragon boat is not a solo effort—it requires full coordination and trust in your teammates. The shared experience of training, competing, and overcoming obstacles together builds strong bonds of friendship and camaraderie.

Fun and Adventure: The thrill of racing against other teams, the excitement of competition, and the opportunity to travel to different events can make dragon boat racing an adventurous and fun pursuit. The sport is as much about enjoyment and shared experiences as it is about athletic achievement.

Training Schedule

1. Dragonboat training is on the water. We arrive 45 minutes prior to getting on the water to stretch, organize and prepare the boats. We are on the water an hour of training and then bring the boats in, clean them and cover them.

2. Attendance at all training opportunities is not required.

Practice Locations

Lake Miona 10339 County Rd 115A, Oxford, FL 34484

Lake Sumter Lake Sumter Square (Next to the Hotel)

Eastport (Coming late 2025) Boat House on Eastport Lake

The Leatherneck Warriors team fosters camaraderie and competitive spirit, making every race an unforgettable experience.

"Ooh-rah!"

★★★★★