Possible Clues:

• Caress; cricket shot
• An oarsman must be fit
• Pat is all right - taking a rest break outside
• Call to a crew
• Gentle action by oarsman
• Word from a coxswain
• Shot that's a bit of luck for the player?
• The way to give a hearty hand to your pet
• A blow or brain haemorrhage
• Blow or a brain haemorrhage