diff --git a/rowers/models.py b/rowers/models.py
index 2eb2ec3c..6922265f 100644
--- a/rowers/models.py
+++ b/rowers/models.py
@@ -232,7 +232,7 @@ class Rower(models.Model):
         ('hidden','Hidden'),
         )
 
-    getemailnotifications = models.BooleanField(default=True,
+    getemailnotifications = models.BooleanField(default=False,
                                                 verbose_name='Receive email notifications')
 
     rowerplan = models.CharField(default='basic',max_length=30,