Phil commenced rowing in 1974 at Torrens Rowing Club and progressed from Beginners to Junior Status. He served as Club Captain at TRC for four years and Treasurer for four years. Phil ceased rowing in 1985 and recommenced in 2000 joining Norwood Morialta Rowing Club where he served on the Committee. He then transferred to Riverside Rowing Club rowing in 2001 with Warwick Stuart, Mal Fergusson and Peter Erskine in fours and quads.