Cox boxes are pretty expensive so I would only buy your own if you are absolutely, 10000% positive that you are going to stick with it the whole way through high school (and/or college). If you’re only going to use it for a year or two I don’t think it’s worth it to buy your own.

There’s actually only one place that makes cox boxes – Nielsen-Kellerman. Each one is $500+ but if you wanted to get one cheaper, you could get a used one. Your best bet for finding one is to check row2k’s classifieds section under either “oars and equipment” or “accessories” – people post them in both spots sometimes. You could also check with local clubs/teams in your area and ask if they have any old cox boxes that they’re looking to get rid of. I’m sure they’d be willing to work something out with you.