Syracuse University
Key Facts:
Location: Syracuse, State of New York, East Coast.
Division: Division I
Conference: Atlantic Coast Conference
Womens NCAA 2023 Rank: 13th, Varsity finish: 7th, Last Championship Title: N/A
Mens IRA 2023 Rank: 8th, Varsity finish: 5th, Last Championship Title: 1978
Get expert help on how to secure scholarships and get recruited to row in college:
Rowing at Syracuse University: Pursuing Excellence on Onondaga
With a rich athletics tradition and excellent academic programs, Syracuse University provides top opportunities on and off the water. Consistently ranked one of the nation's premier crews, Syracuse rowing attracts elite talent seeking championships and a world-class education.
Coaching Excellence
Women’s coach Luke McGee joined Syracuse as head coach in 2018 after an accomplished career coaching internationally and in college. He served as head coach of the U.S. Men's National Team from 2012-2017, leading the Men's 8+ to four World Cup medals and a World Championship medal while also guiding the U23s to a world title. Before his national team tenure, McGee was an assistant coach for the University of Washington, helping the Huskies win five straight national championships and 20 individual boat titles from 2008-2012. The primary point of contact for women’s recruits is Michael Siravo: masiravo@syr.edu
Entering his 21st season leading the Orange, head coach Dave Reischman has transformed Syracuse men's rowing into a premier program that consistently contends nationally. Under his guidance, the men's team has reached the IRA grand final four times and climbed as high as 5th nationally in the 2022 season. Reischman's student-athletes also achieved high honors, with five men earning IRCA All-American status and five being named IRCA Scholar Athletes last season. With over two decades of ushering the Orange to success on and off the water, Reischman has cemented Syracuse as a force among the collegiate rowing elite. The primary point of contact for men’s recruits is Connor Walters: cdwalter@syr.edu
Learn about the college recruiting timeline >
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The James A. Ten Eyck Memorial Boathouse provides Orange rowers with an ideal headquarters. Outfitted with bikes and ergs, for training when rowing on the water isn’t possible, the boathouse offers all student-athletes require. The boathouse is located a 15-minute bus ride from campus and allows athletes to row on the Onondaga Lake Outlet. Syracuse's main campus fitness center, the Sanford Rowing Peformance Centre, supplies additional resources including a top notch weights room, a rowing tank and RP3s ergs, which is located just a 5 to 15-minute walk from most student housing. Between the boathouse facility and supplementary campus gym, Syracuse rowers have access to top training environments.
Competitive Drive
Syracuse rowing faces fierce local rivals all season long and travels nationwide to top invitational regattas. Squads regularly compete at renowned East Coast fixtures including the Head of the Charles each fall. Winter and spring training trips to Florida and Clemson provide crucial preparation for the regular racing season. The men's team heads to California for the Stanford Invitational to battle crews like Cal, while the women match up against West Coast powerhouses at the Virginia invite. The spring season culminates with eyes on the ACC Championships and leaving a mark nationally. Syracuse also ventures abroad, facing international competition at the Henley Royal Regatta.
Balancing Academics and Athletics
Syracuse rowers receive robust academic support to balance their athletic demands, including early class registration priority, free tutoring, and a dedicated academic advisor. The majority of training sessions are held in the evenings and kept concise, with just two morning practices weekly at 7am. This schedule allows ample time for focusing on coursework. With aid tailored for student-athletes combined with smart scheduling, Orange rowers are able to excel in competition without compromising academics.
Renowned Institution
Syracuse offers 250+ majors across 13 colleges, including top-ranked programs in public communications and public policy. The university's strength lies in tailoring education through distinct tracks within its professional schools allowing students to prepare for the working world. Professors are praised as knowledgeable, available, and unbiased. The alumni network provides ample career resources and connections, which fosters a strong sense of connection among students enhancing post-graduation prospects. The vibrant campus offers a multitude of activities, from football game days to Greek life. Students also enjoy alternatives like the Orange After Dark program and a well-equipped gym, fostering a balanced college experience.
How to get recruited to row at Syracuse:
To start your recruiting journey, begin by filling out the rowing recruiting questionnaires on the Syracuse rowing website. After completing the questionnaire, take the initiative to send an introductory email to the rowing recruiting coach, providing essential details about yourself. This helps create a strong initial impression and lays the foundation for effective communication with the coach.
Get expert help on how to secure scholarships and get recruited to row in college:
Discover the University of Pennsylvania's rowing story, where a mix of tradition and modern facilities sets the stage for academic and athletic excellence. Navigate the unique journey of Penn's student-athletes as they strike a balance between rigorous academics and competitive rowing on Boathouse Row.