Press Releases Archives | Rowing News https://www.rowingnews.com/category/press-releases-news/ Since 1994 Sat, 23 Dec 2023 15:48:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.rowingnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/cropped-ROWINGnews_oarlock_RGB-150x150-1-1-32x32.png Press Releases Archives | Rowing News https://www.rowingnews.com/category/press-releases-news/ 32 32 Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing Association Renews 5 Year Partnership with RegattaCentral https://www.rowingnews.com/philadelphia-scholastic-rowing-association-renews-5-year-partnership-with-regattacentral/ Sat, 23 Dec 2023 15:48:52 +0000 https://www.rowingnews.com/?p=21280 RegattaCentral is thrilled to announce that it has renewed its long-standing partnership with the Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing Association (PSRA).

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RegattaCentral is thrilled to announce that it has renewed its long-standing partnership with the Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing Association (PSRA). This extended collaboration reinforces the two organizations’ commitment to providing outstanding services and support to scholastic rowers participating in the seven PSRA-hosted regattas.

PSRA has been a well-known and respected organization in the rowing community for many decades. They have hosted various events, including the Manny Flick/Horvat Series (also known as “The Flicks” or “Manny Flicks”), City Championships, and the Hidden River Chase. The organization has a strong commitment to its mission, which can be traced back to the early days of scholastic rowing in Philadelphia – a city that is synonymous with this sport.

RegattaCentral has been partnering with PSRA’s Flicks and City Championships since 2005, providing customized solutions that contribute to the organization’s growth and sustainability. In 2017, RC was appointed the official registrar, a year after adding the Hidden River Chase to the registration platform.

President of the Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing Association, Leslie Pfeil, shares mutual enthusiasm, “The Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing Association has enjoyed a decades-long relationship with RegattaCentral, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with them. Their services and products have helped us build and sustain our organization in its commitment to providing fair and safe competitive racing opportunities to scholastic rowers. We consider RegattaCentral part of our growing family!”

RegattaCentral takes pride in supporting organizations like PSRA, which share a vision of excellence and growth in rowing. The renewed partnership reaffirms RegattaCentral’s pursuit of providing top-notch solutions that empower rowing communities.

Lauren Means, Account Director at RegattaCentral, said, “We feel privileged to extend our partnership with the Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing Association. PSRA’s dedication to promoting the sport aligns seamlessly with our mission to enhance the rowing experience using innovative solutions. We are excited about the next five years of collaboration and look forward to contributing to the continued success of their distinguished events.”

In renewing its partnership with RegattaCentral, PSRA is celebrating its rich history and setting the stage for new heights of success and innovation in the years to come. The collaboration between these two entities exemplifies a shared commitment to advancing the sport of rowing and ensuring that PSRA’s legacy continues to thrive. Use the links below to learn more about each organization.

 

About RegattaCentral:

Founded in 1999, RegattaCentral got its start as a provider of online regatta registration. Since that time, RegattaCentral now provides innovative regatta and club management tools for rowing clubs, conventions, clinics, and camps. RegattaCentral serves over 500 regattas and 250 organizations annually.

About Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing Association:

The Philadelphia Scholastic Rowing Association (PSRA) is a non-profit organization of more than 75 high school crew programs from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and New York. The PSRA currently has 28 permanent (voting) member teams and is governed by a Board of Directors elected by the voting membership. The PSRA’s mission is to provide fair, safe and competitive rowing experiences to high school teams and their members and to serve as an advocate for junior and scholastic rowing.

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San Diego Crew Classic, RegattaCentral Announce Partnership https://www.rowingnews.com/san-diego-crew-classic-regattacentral-announce-partnership/ Tue, 05 Dec 2023 19:37:02 +0000 https://www.rowingnews.com/?p=21176 The San Diego Crew Classic enters 5 year partnership with RegattaCentral.

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STORY COURTESY REGATTACENTRAL | PHOTO COURTESY SDCC 

The San Diego Crew Classic has extended its partnership with RegattaCentral, the leading online solutions provider for the rowing community. For the next five years, RegattaCentral will remain the Official Registrar for the event. For almost 20 years, this partnership has played a crucial role in the evolution of one of the nation’s premier rowing events while meeting the rowing community’s changing needs by offering innovative tools for regattas and their participants.

The origins of the San Diego Crew Classic trace back to the early 1970s when a group of dedicated individuals envisioned a regatta that would not only showcase the athleticism of rowers but also celebrate the beauty of the sport. In 1973, the inaugural Crew Classic took place on Mission Bay, with a handful of collegiate crews participating in what would soon become a hallmark event for the rowing community. Over the years, it has grown to become a premier event that includes masters and youth categories, attracting top crews from across the nation and around the world.

Mark Rose, the President of the San Diego Crew Classic, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership’s renewal, stating, “We at the Crew Classic are excited to continue our long-term partnership with RegattaCentral. Their product, experienced and helpful staff, and commitment to service and support make them a great teammate. We look forward to working together to make the Crew Classic even better.”

Steve Lopez, the founder of RegattaCentral, shares Rose’s excitement for the partnership’s future. “We are delighted to extend our partnership with the prestigious San Diego Crew Classic for another five years,” Steve said. “The Crew Classic is renowned for its excellence in rowing events, consistently setting high standards in numerous aspects. At RegattaCentral, we are thrilled to reaffirm our commitment to delivering the exceptional services and innovative solutions that the Crew Classic has come to depend on, and we are excited to continue working closely with them to achieve this.”

As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we eagerly anticipate the future, committed to continuing our shared journey of innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible for regattas.

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First-Ever Conference for Women Rowing Coaches https://www.rowingnews.com/first-ever-conference-for-women-rowing-coaches/ Wed, 29 Nov 2023 12:57:45 +0000 https://www.rowingnews.com/?p=21148 More than 50 women rowing coaches eager to improve their leadership skills and advance their careers are expected to attend the first-ever Women’s Coaching Conference (WCC), Nov. 30 to Dec. […]

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More than 50 women rowing coaches eager to improve their leadership skills and advance their careers are expected to attend the first-ever Womens Coaching Conference (WCC), Nov. 30 to Dec. 2, in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. 

There is a real need among female rowing coaches for community and professional development,” said Madeline Davis Tully, founder of the event and former coach of women’s rowing at Stanford University, The Ohio State University, and Boston University.

“This conference is a very real, very practical way to get and keep women in coaching, making the sport better for everyone.”

The purpose of the WCC is to educate, connect, and inspire emerging and established coaches from every level of the sport – collegiate, junior, masters, and club—and to create a profession that is better-equipped, more inclusive, and more sustainable.

Last summer, 11 female head coaches left their positions in Division I rowing, and nearly half those positions were filled by men. Today, less than a third of college head rowing coaches are women.

Its clear that the time is now for a conference like this,” Davis Tully said.

Coaches are traveling from as far as California and Florida to learn from expert speakers about such topics as leadership, bravery, and advocating for yourself and your team. 

The presenters and their topics include:

Holly Austin
Head Coach and Founder, Ready Set Row
Leading with Authenticity and Building Connection: The Brave Rowing Coach

Dr. Sharon Beverly, Ph.D.
Founder and President, Beverly and Associates
Mastering the Process to Land Your Next Job

Liz Dennison
Associate Athletic Director and Senior Woman Administrator, Hobart and William Smith Colleges
Positioning Your Program for Success: How to Effectively Advocate for Yourself and Your Team

Miranda Paris Holder, PCC
Founder and Principal Coach, Holder Leadership
The Inner Game of Leadership

Crista Samaras
CEO and Founder, Brave Enterprises
Bravery

Thirteen coaches will attend the conference without charge through generous scholarships from Concept2, Head of the Hooch Regatta, Shimano, and USRowing. Other conference sponsors are the Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association, Concept2, Hydrow, Ready Set Row, and Rowing News.

The conference will take place at Hydrow corporate headquarters, 10 Summer St., Fifth Floor, in the Downtown Crossing retail and pedestrian area of Boston. Childcare is available on site for conference attendees.

The Women’s Coaching Conference will return to Boston next year, and a similar event is planned for the West Coast as well as a conference for both male and female coaches at a location yet to be determined.

For more information, visit the WCC website at https://wccconference.com and on Instagram @wccconference.

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Canadian National Rowing Team Alumni Shine at 2023 Head of the Charles Regatta, Pay Tribute to Late Teammate Jon Beare https://www.rowingnews.com/canadian-national-rowing-team-alumni-shine-at-2023-head-of-the-charles-regatta-pay-tribute-to-late-teammate-jon-beare/ Sun, 26 Nov 2023 06:01:24 +0000 https://www.rowingnews.com/?p=21139 Canadian rowers spanning generations of representing the Maple Leaf enjoy a tremendous regatta reminiscing on memories while making new ones on, and off, the water.

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PHOTO AND STORY COURTESY ROWING CANADA AVIRON

Not only did the Rowing Canada Aviron (RCA) alumni excel in their respective races, but the gathering also served as a poignant occasion for sharing stories, and memories, and paying tribute to the late Jon Beare, a Beijing bronze medallist and teammate to many, who sadly passed away in October 2023.

Under the RCA Alumni Association banner, the Women’s Coxed Four in the Senior Masters category secured a gold medal with a stellar performance. The quartet of Jen WalingaIsolda PenneyCheri Moore, and Julie Platt, coxed by Deb Lloyd, not only clinched victory but also set a new course record, outpacing their competitors by a remarkable 16 seconds, finishing in a time of 18:29.

Members of the victorious Women’s Coxed Four crew. (Jennifer Walinga/Instagram)

Additionally, other RCA Alumni, racing as Endeavour RC in the same race, placed 8th in a time of 20:14. This coxed four under the leadership of alumna Lesleh Anderson, featured Tina ClarkeAngela SchneiderJane Stamp (nee Tregunno), along with Molly Baker (USA Alumni) and coxed by Freya Pollock.

On the men’s side, there were two entries in the Sr. Masters 8+ (50+) race. The “Red” crew consisting of Julien BahainDave CalderAndrew HoskinsDarren BarberMike ForgeronPhil MoncktonAubrey OldhamHenry Hering and coxed by Sara Pape started in 6th place and finished 3rd overall in a time of 15:32.

The second crew, the “White” boat, coxed by Mark Laidlaw included Phil GrahamChris JarvisJim RelleChristian DubrowskiPaul HardyRichard UpenieksPeter McClelland and Todd Keesey. The crew started in the 18th spot and were able to claw their way to a very respectable 9th place overall in a time of 16:18.

In a touching tribute to their late teammate Jon Beare, both men’s eights gathered for a team photo around one of the three Hudson boats named in his honour. Men’s and women’s alumni crews along with international competitors and friends from GBR, NZ, USA, and AUS, concluded the regatta with a heartfelt toast in his memory, embodying the spirit of unity that defines the international rowing community.

A toast to the memory of Jon Beare. (Aubrey Oldham/Instagram)

Following the regatta, Paul Hardy, an elite provincial level rower in his junior years, shared an inspiring letter with the National Team Alumni Association, reflecting on the transformative journey that brought him, fellow junior elite rower Richard Upenieks, and Los Angeles 1984 Olympian Jim Relle back to the Charles River. Their story, born from a few emails reconnecting old friends, underscored the enduring bond of rowing and the joy of competing together once again.

As the echoes of the 2023 Head of the Charles Regatta linger, the RCA Alumni express their enthusiasm for future competitions. The experience Paul Hardy shared encapsulates the sentiment of the alumni association, who invite fellow rowing enthusiasts to join the ranks and start training not only for next year’s HOCR but for other regattas across the nation. The prospect of racing again with your Canadian National Teammates is a great opportunity to rekindle the passion for rowing that unites us all.

 

Are you an Rowing Canada Aviron Alum?

To stay in touch and receive updates on alumni events and news, we encourage you to register as an Rowing Canada Aviron Alumni member here. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about opportunities to get involved as an RCA Alum, please email alumni@rowingcanada.org

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John Wetzstein Returns Home to Lead Saskatchewan Rowing’s High Performance Program https://www.rowingnews.com/john-wetzstein-returns-home-to-lead-saskatchewan-rowings-high-performance-program/ Sat, 25 Nov 2023 06:01:52 +0000 https://www.rowingnews.com/?p=21136 The current National Team coach will become the technical lead of the province’s rowing program heading into the 2024 season.

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PHOTO AND STORY COURTESY ROWING CANADA AVIRON

In a significant development for the Saskatchewan rowing community, John Wetzstein, a distinguished national team coach with Rowing Canada Aviron (RCA), has accepted the role of Sport Technical Director and High Performance Coach with the Saskatchewan Rowing Association. This marks a homecoming for Wetzstein, who with his elite coaching knowledge, is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of rowing in his home province.

Amanda Billesberger, President of the Saskatchewan Rowing Association, expressed her enthusiasm for John’s appointment.

“We are pleased to welcome John as our new Sport Technical Director and High Performance Coach. John’s wealth of knowledge and the expertise that he will share with our coaches and rowers is outstanding,” Billesberger said. “His return to Saskatchewan is an exciting homecoming for John and SaskRowing. We look forward to the continued growth of our program under John’s leadership.”

Wetzstein has been involved with the Canadian National Team program for the past decade, including leading the crew that captured Canada’s first Paralympic rowing medal at the Rio 2016 Games and most recently as the coach of the Men’s Sculling program.

“I have mixed feelings about leaving my current role. There are colleagues and athletes that I have enjoyed working with so very much and there is sadness around that. But it is also true that in a real way I’m not actually leaving Rowing Canada Aviron. I’ll be working to help athletes and coaches in Saskatchewan do more, be better, reach levels of excellence that will benefit the Canadian rowing community,” Wetzstein shared. “My friends and colleagues in the National Team program are still my friends and colleagues and I’m looking forward to being back in Saskatchewan and to bring what I’ve learned with me to grow the sport and develop both athletes and coaches alike.”

RCA High Performance Director Adam Parfitt thanked John for his passion and dedication over the past years and is looking forward to seeing the results John will have with the emerging Saskatchewan rowers.

“On behalf of RCA and our National Team coaches and athletes, I thank John for his hard work, passion and determination to help our nation’s elite rowers over the past decade,” Parfitt shared. “I have no doubt that John’s wealth of experience and passion for helping athletes will inspire and elevate the rowing community in Saskatchewan. We are excited to see the positive influence he will have on the development of both coaches and athletes as he returns to his home province. We wish him all the best.”

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USRowing Foundation Adds Two New Trustees https://www.rowingnews.com/usrowing-foundation-adds-two-new-trustees-2/ Fri, 03 Nov 2023 05:01:21 +0000 https://www.rowingnews.com/?p=21018 USRowing is pleased to announce the addition of William Weil and George Wilson II as Trustees to the USRowing Foundation (USRF).  

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STORY COURTESY USROWING | PHOTO BY PETER SPURRIER

NEW YORK, N.Y. – USRowing is pleased to announce the addition of William Weil and George Wilson II as Trustees to the USRowing Foundation (USRF).

“Along with their rowing backgrounds and connections, both William and George add professional expertise that will be valuable to the organization as we head into the Olympic year and beyond,” said USRF Chair Bill McNabb, former Chairman and CEO of Vanguard.

“I owe so much to the sport of rowing, which transformed me as a student, athlete, and person,” said Weil. “My wife, Tracey, and I also deeply appreciate how the sport has favorably impacted our kids. I am excited to join the USRowing Foundation to support its philanthropic work, which includes bringing more people into the sport, increasing its diversity, and funding the U.S. High Performance Program.”

“I am grateful for the pivotal role that rowing has played in shaping my high school and collegiate experiences.,” Wilson said. “The lessons and discipline cultivated during those years have profoundly influenced both my professional and personal life. It is with sincere humility that I bring my expertise, advice, and perspective to USRowing, with the hope of contributing to the organization’s commercial growth goals.”

Weil Head ShotWilliam S. Weil (Washington, D.C.) 
Manager, Private Trust Company

Wilson Head ShotGeorge Wilson, II (New York, N.Y.)
Head of Partnerships, National Basketball Association G League 

There are currently 29 USRowing Foundation Trustees who represent a wide breadth of professional expertise and rowing connections. A full list of USRF Trustees can be found here.

About USRowing Foundation  
The USRowing Foundation is the fundraising arm of the United States Rowing Association (USRowing). Trustees of the USRowing Foundation use their personal and professional contacts to grow the USRowing fundraising pipeline – providing opportunities for individuals, foundations, and corporations to support USRowing initiatives and priorities through individual philanthropy and corporate partnerships.

About USRowing 
USRowing is a nonprofit organization recognized by the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee as the governing body for the sport of rowing in the United States.

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Nominees Revealed for 2023 World Rowing Awards https://www.rowingnews.com/nominees-revealed-for-2023-world-rowing-awards/ Thu, 02 Nov 2023 05:01:24 +0000 https://www.rowingnews.com/?p=21015 The 2023 World Rowing Awards will be held virtually on Monday, 11 December 2023 at 19:00 CET.

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PHOTO AND STORY COURTESY WORLD ROWING

Following public nominations, the Executive Committee has selected the finalists based on the analysis of expert panels created for each of the awards. The 2023 World Rowing Awards will be held virtually on Monday, 11 December 2023 at 19:00 CET.

Finalists for the 2023 World Rowing Awards (listed in alphabetical order of the country name)

Men’s Crew of the Year

  • Oliver Zeidler, Men’s Single Sculls, Germany
  • Oliver Wilkes, David Ambler, Matthew Aldridge, Freddie Davidson, Men’s Four, Great Britain
  • Roman Roeoesli, Andrin Gulich, Men’s Pair, Switzerland

Women’s Crew of the Year

  • Emily Craig, Imogen Grant, Lightweight Women’s Double Sculls, Great Britain
  • Karolien Florijn, Women’s Single Sculls, Netherlands
  • Magdalena Rusu, Roxana Anghel, Adriana Adam, Iuliana Buhus, Madalina Beres, Maria Tivodariu, Ioana Vrinceanu, Amalia Beres, Victoria-Stefania Petreanu, Women’s Eight, Romania

Para Crew of the Year

  • Nikki Ayers, Jed Altschwager, PR3 Mixed Double Sculls, Australia
  • Lauren Rowles, Gregg Stevenson, PR2 Mixed Double Sculls, Great Britain
  • Birgit Skarstein, PR1 Women’s Single Sculls, Norway
  • Roman Polianskyi, PR1 Men’s Single Sculls, Ukraine

Coach of the Year

  • Darren Whiter, Great Britain
  • Michelle Darvill, Netherlands
  • Francesco Fossi, Netherlands
  • Johan Lidberg, Norway
  • Ian Wright, Switzerland

Distinguished Service to International Rowing

The winner of the Distinguished Service Award will be announced at the time of the Awards Ceremony.

Thomas Keller Medal

  • Angel Fournier Rodriguez, Cuba
  • Ondrej Synek, Czechia
  • Richard Schmidt, Germany
  • Kerri Williams and Grace Prendergast, New Zealand
  • Caryn Davies, United States of America

The 2023 World Rowing Awards will be presented in a virtual ceremony on 11 December at 19:00 CET, through World Rowing’s website.

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Hollowell Announces Additions to Staff https://www.rowingnews.com/hollowell-announces-additions-to-staff/ Sat, 28 Oct 2023 05:01:55 +0000 https://www.rowingnews.com/?p=20995 Boston College's rowing head coach Grace Hollowell has announced the addition of two new members to the coaching staff ahead of the 2023-24 season.

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PHOTO AND STORY COURTESY BOSTON COLLEGE

CHESTNUT HILL, Mass.  – Boston College’s rowing head coach Grace Hollowell has announced the addition of two new members to the coaching staff ahead of the 2023-24 season.

Rylie Hager
Rylie Hager enters her first season with the Boston College rowing coaching staff as the second assistant coach.

Before joining the Eagles, Hager served as the head coach of the Ikaika Rowing Club in Honolulu, HI for two years. Under her guidance, Hager transformed the program, taking the first-ever crew from Hawaii to compete in the Head of the Charles Regatta. She guided top athletes to the USRowing Development camp and earned scholarships to division one programs. 

A 2021 graduate of Temple University, Rylie Hager was a decorated rower as she won the 2019 Dad Vail Regatta. She was a top rower competing in the first varsity eight and second varsity eight for three years. Hager was awarded the Temple University Athlete of the Year Award in 2021 as well as the teammate of the year award.  

Hollowell on Hager: “Coach Rylie’s passion and belief in her athletes stuck out from first meeting her last year, I am thrilled to have her working with our team. Her leadership skills, her ability to communicate with her athletes, and her shared core values will make her a valuable asset to the team.” 

David J. Osborne
David Osborne enters his first season with the Boston College rowing coach staff as the volunteer assistant coach for the 2023-24 season.

Osborne joins the Eagles from the prestigious Institute of Rowing Leadership at the Community Rowing Inc. The IRL fellowship accepts five fellows each year. 

Prior to his fellowship, Osborne worked in a multitude of learn to row programs, as well as an assistant coach to high school competitive programs. 

A 2022 graduate of St. Lawrence University, David Osborne was a decorated coxswain, coxing the St. Lawrence men’s team to its highest conference finish in program history. Osborne placed the team in Intercollegiate Rowing Association status.

Hollowell on Osborne: “David’s energy and enthusiasm for rowing and coaching is unmatched. As a former coxswain he brings a whole new skillset to our staff and has already pushed our coxswains to be better. He is detail oriented with high standards, two qualities that will benefit our athletes here at BC.”

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USRowing Introduces “Pathways” Program: A Vision for Athlete Development https://www.rowingnews.com/usrowing-introduces-pathways-program-a-vision-for-athlete-development/ Fri, 27 Oct 2023 14:06:00 +0000 https://www.rowingnews.com/?p=20961 USRowing is pleased to unveil the "Pathways" program, a dynamic new initiative that aligns with our 2023 strategic plan.

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STORY COURTESY USROWING | PHOTO BY LISA WORTHY

USRowing is pleased to unveil the “Pathways” program, a dynamic new initiative that aligns with our 2023 strategic plan. With a strong emphasis on our commitment to support our high performance athletes in their pursuit of excellence on the world stage, “Pathways” serves as a testament to Chief High Performance Officer Josy Verdonkschot’s vision for athlete development.

“Pathways will be the direct link to the senior team for younger generations of athletes. It’s athlete centered focus, prioritizing education, clear communication, and training standardization, will set the team up for success in LA2028 and beyond,” Verdonkschot said.

Designed as a comprehensive under 19/under 23 pathway to the national team, the program underscores our dedication to nurturing American rowing talent and provides the resources, coaching, and development pathways required to empower our athletes to become the best in the world. Leading the “Pathways” program is Brett Gorman, who will be the primary contact for U19 and U23 athletes.

Mission and Vision
“Pathways” embodies a vision of holistic athlete development and international competitive success. It aspires to offer an integrated pathway for U19 and U23 athletes, enabling them to represent the United States on the global stage. The program places equal emphasis on long-term athlete development and competitive excellence, reflecting USRowing’s broader mission. The “Pathways” program seeks to provide emerging athletes with a well-defined route and the foundation needed for international achievement. It prioritizes transparency, collaboration, and education, aiming to promote not only athletic success but also personal growth.

Meet Our Director: Brett Gorman
USRowing is delighted to announce the appointment of Brett Gorman as the Director of High Performance Pathways. With her extensive experience in coaching and leadership in the rowing community, Gorman is well-suited to lead the “Pathways” program. She previously led USRowing’s educational efforts as the Director of Learning and Development.

“I’m looking forward to returning to direct athlete development and supporting all of our national teams,” Gorman said. “I’ve spent countless hours working with coaches and program leaders the past three years and want to apply that knowledge to developing an athlete- and coach-centered pathway that focuses on long-term results.”

Collaborative Approach
Gorman will work under the guidance of USRowing’s Chief High Performance Officer, Josy Verdonkschot, and will draw inspiration from best practices within USRowing’s senior national team program, with a focus on cultivating a culture of excellence within “Pathways.”

“Brett’s experience with developing athletes and her enthusiasm for the role make her an excellent candidate to lead this program,” Verdonkschot said. “Her ability to work seamlessly with coaches of all backgrounds and styles positions her as a valuable asset to our mission of nurturing high performance athletes.”

In addition to coordinating USRowing’s U19 and U23 selection camps, Gorman will work to integrate the Olympic Development Program (ODP),  including the U19 youth development and selection development camps, and high-performance clubs into “Pathways,” creating a seamless journey for athletes as they progress. With all of USRowing’s camps linked under the same umbrella, “Pathways” will provide multiple entry points for athletes to enter the system depending on their level of skill and experience.

The Four Pillars/Tenets of “Pathways”

  1. Building on Systems: “Pathways” recognizes that rowing excellence is the result of collective efforts and values the development of robust systems to support athletes and coaches.
    • What does this look like? Within “Pathways,” this pillar is manifested in the deliberate cultivation of systems and structures that support athlete development. This includes standardized coaching methodologies, training regimens, and performance evaluation criteria that are consistently applied to all participants and stem from the Chief High Performance Officer.
  2. Prioritizing Communication and Transparency: The program is built on open and candid communication aimed at keeping athletes, coaches, and stakeholders informed and engaged.
    • What does this look like? Transparent reporting mechanisms are used to maintain an open dialogue, ensuring that everyone is engaged and aware of their journey. This includes accurate information on USRowing’s website, consistent coach and athlete communication, and informational meetings/webinars for key stakeholders.
  3. Educating Through Information Sharing and Collaboration: “Pathways” seeks to create a platform for ongoing learning and improvement, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and the exchange of knowledge and experiences.
    • What does this look like? “Pathways” is committed to creating an ecosystem where knowledge is shared freely. Coaches, athletes, and support staff collaborate to exchange insights, best practices, and innovations. Workshops, seminars, and mentorship programs are employed to foster continuous learning and professional growth.
  4. Developing Opportunities for Coaches and Athletes: The “Pathways” team is dedicated to fostering an environment that supports the growth and development of both coaches and athletes.
    • What does this look like: The “Pathways” program seeks to create a rich environment for coaches and athletes alike. Coaches have access to mentorship and professional development opportunities, while athletes benefit from specialized training, individualized performance plans, and resources designed to help them reach their fullest potential.

The Path Forward
“Pathways” represents the future of high performance rowing in the United States, designed to help athletes achieve their potential and proudly represent their nation on the international stage.

We cordially invite everyone to come with us on this journey. Please join us Wednesday, November 15, from 8-9 p.m. ET for an informational webinar outlining the 2024 plans for “Pathways.”

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Four medals highlight Santiago 2023 Pan Am Games regatta https://www.rowingnews.com/four-medals-highlight-santiago-2023-pan-am-games-regatta/ Fri, 27 Oct 2023 05:01:28 +0000 https://www.rowingnews.com/?p=20958 The final day of the Santiago 2023 rowing regatta concluded with Canadian rowers adding bronze in the Women’s Double, the nation’s fourth rowing medal of the Games.

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PHOTO AND STORY COURTESY ROWING CANADA AVIRON

The Santiago 2023 Pan American Games rowing regatta has come to a close with Team Canada adding another bronze medal. Alizée Brien (Montreal Rowing Club) and Shaye De Paiva (Queens University / Calgary Rowing Club) powered to the podium in the Women’s Double to bring the nation’s total to four rowing medals at the Games.

Battling changing conditions at Laguna Grande de San Pedro de la Paz, Brien and de Paiva used a resilient final 500m to secure the bronze medal, behind the United States of America and Chilean crews. The bronze medal finish capped an impressive regatta for Brien and de Paiva who each head home from Chile with three medals from their debut Pan American Games, a feat de Paiva is proud to have shared with her doubles partner.

“I am proud of how far Alizée and I have come in the short time we have had together in the boat,” De Paiva said. “We have had some really great rows, today perhaps wasn’t our best, but it has been really cool to represent Canada and stand on the podium three times with her this week. I am really proud of us.”

For Brien, competing at the Games has produced many memorable moments, but being a part of Team Canada has been the highlight of her regatta.

“There have been a lot of memorable moments for me this week,” Brien shares. “But I think it has been the team and the team spirit that I will remember the most. Winning a gold medal in the eight was incredible but being part of the team and being with the support staff and getting to experience the Games with the crowds and volunteers, has been a lot of fun.”

Canadian crews narrowly missed out on adding to the medal tally on the final day of competition, with the Mixed Eight crew, coxed by Tokyo Olympic gold medallist Kristen Kit (University of British Columbia / St. Catharines Rowing), finishing fourth in a heated battle with the Cuban crew. While Shane Willis (Peterborough Rowing Club) rowed to a commendable fifth position in the Men’s Single final.

The highlight of the regatta for Team Canada was undoubtedly the Women’s Eight (W8+) category, where the Canadian team clinched a historic gold medal. Comprising a talented lineup, including included cox, KitLeia Till (University of Virginia/Brockville Rowing Club), Abby Dent (University of Virginia/Kenora Rowing Club), De PaivaAbby Speirs (University of Victoria), Parker Illingworth (University of Texas), BrienOlivia McMurray (Calgary Rowing Club) and Kendra Hartley (Calgary Rowing Club), the team demonstrated outstanding teamwork and endurance to be crowned champions in the first-ever Women’s Eight event at the Pan American Games.

Adding to the Pan Am team’s success, the Women’s Pair (W2-) event witnessed an impressive display by Dent and McMurray, securing the silver medal. Earlier in the regatta, the Women’s Quad (W4x) event brought more glory to the Canadian team, with Brien, de Paiva, Hartley, and Illingworth securing the bronze medal.

The Women’s Four (W4-) and Lightweight Men’s Double (LM2x) narrowly missed out on podium finishes, with fourth and fifth place finishes respectively. The Men’s Pair (M2-) and Men’s Double (M2x) categories saw the Canadian crews dominate the B Finals to victories, securing the seventh position overall in their respective events.

The 16 athletes have represented Rowing Canada Aviron (RCA) and their nation proudly at the Pan American Games.

Full Results
Team Canada Roster

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