I'm thinking of joining the rowing team. What do I need to know?

My school is looking for quite a few people to join the rowing team and I can’t decide if I’m crazy for thinking about applying.

I’m somewhat out of shape and could stand to lose some weight. However, I am a great walker, enjoy hiking, and could get in shape enough to do this, I think. I’ve always liked the rowing machine at the gym and I love being on the water. In a geeky way, I’ve always though rowers were cool. I also like participating in team sports, especially one that’s not so mainstream (our football fans are obnoxious idiots). Lastly, I would welcome the opportunity to get in better shape. Maybe I’m crazy, but I think it might be something I actually can do.

So any little tidbits of what it’s like, how it’s difficult (and easy), what to prepare for, what they’re looking for… lay it on me, because I’m interested in knowing as much as possible. Thanks. :)