A coxswain is combination quarterback, cheerleader, and coach, all rolled into a small package hopefully not weighing more than 55 kilograms.
A coxswain's responsibilities are to steer a straight course over a windy 2000 meter stretch, to execute the race strategy, and to inspire his rowers to greater feats of endurance than they dreamed possible.
His reward for doing a good job is to be hurled into the water by his rowers, partly in tribute and gratitude, and partly in a tit-for-tat revenge on the person who exhorted and cajoled them.