Crew

Author: Zamir Ahmed

Head Coach: Alex Machi
Save the Date: Oct. 20-21, at the Head of the Charles
Get it Stat: 1 - Finish by the women's varsity 'A' boat at the New England Fours last May, the first gold medal they've won since '96.

While most Middlebury students were savoring the final days of summer vacation before trudging back to college, the men's and women's crew teams were already suffering through two-a-day practices in preparation for their fall regattas. The teams, no strangers to tough practice schedules after enduring early-morning practices, used the practices to prepare for the fall's first regatta on Sept. 29.

The men's team enters the season with a young squad, with only one senior on the team, but has experience to spare.

"We are returning our entire varsity four from last spring," said Justin Scott '08, who served as a captain last year. "I am confident that we can use our experience to produce some notable results this fall."

The men's team will also be buoyed by the addition of two new rowers, who will give the squad greater depth and push the contest for a coveted spot on the 'A' boat.

"The addition of talented sophomores Michael Chock and Doug Shultz to the varsity will be great for the team as they will generate inter-squad competition for seats in the first boat," said Scott.

The women's team will have a tough time replicating the success it saw last year, having to replace two rowers from the boat that won the New England Fours. Still, the team is optimistic it can be one of the fastest on the water.

"We're very excited to be back on the water and training together," said Emily Dawson '08.5. "The combination of experienced returning rowers with dedicated and enthusiastic rising varsity women promises to be a rewarding and fun season."