After an extremely successful fall, the heavyweight crew confidently awaits its return to the water for the spring season.
The crew has much to look forward to if autumn was any indication of its strength.
“We had one of our best falls ever,” commented head coach Dan Allen.
In fact, it was the fourth fastest school in the nation last semester. Only Wisconsin, Harvard and Northeastern were able to outrow the Red.
Although the crew has done very well lately, Allen firmly stated it must strive to be better.
“We definitely had a good season last spring and in the fall, but there is always room for improvement,” said Allen. “For one, our varsity finished fifth at the Eastern Sprints last year. This season I want our guys to bust into the medals.”
The Carnegie Cup is another regatta at which the crew would like to improve upon last year’s showing. This regatta will be at home against two of the Red’s fiercest rivals: Yale and Princeton.
Speaking of the Carnegie Cup, Allen said, “It is a beautiful trophy, and it must be ours.”
The desire for the Carnegie Cup and a better performance at the Eastern Sprints has kept the crew focused over the offseason. The rowers have trained nonstop during the winter and feel prepared for the spring.
Strong leadership from the sophomore, junior and senior classes played a key role in maintaining a sound offseason workout regiment. Allen believes that this positive leadership will carry the team through the season.
“Our guys are very motivated. They have put in the time and want to be successful,” said Allen.
Although a small group, the freshman class appears promising. The newcomers had a productive fall season and hope to surprise many people this spring.
As of now, Allen is putting a high priority on finding the right combination of rowers. Last fall, the varsity’s first boat was superb. It registered solid times week in and week out. The second and third boats were impressive, but lacked consistency. Allen thinks that every boat can excel this spring.
“Our second and third boats can be great; they just need to find some added tenacity,” Allen commented.
Overall, Allen believes the team’s strengths lie in its preparedness, fearlessness and cohesion.
“This is a team that is willing to lay themselves out on the line for whatever cost,” asserted Allen.
Due to the exceptionally cold winter, the crew has not had a chance to begin outdoor practices yet. Most schools in the Northeast, however, are in the same situation.
As soon as the ice melts, the Red will be ready to row. The team’s first regatta is at home March 29 against Michigan. From there, the crew competes virtually every weekend until the end of its season.
“I am eager and anxious and can’t wait to see our guys attack the competition,” ended Allen.
Archived article by Mark Travers