Our favorite local school, Stetson University, prides itself on a thriving athletic program—and its men and women rowing teams are no exceptions! As the spirited water-loving teams prepare to open their spring season this March, we thought we’d take a look at some of the teams’ recent achievements—and, of course, the exciting events to come.

Hatter success at Fall Rendezvous Regatta

If the rowing teams’ performance this past fall is any indication of what we can expect in the months ahead, we’re in luck! The Hatters celebrated great success at their last rowing event of the fall season, the 3rd Annual Rendezvous Regatta—and we’re expecting nothing less from our local rowers during this spring’s events.

Signing of new Hatters

They may not have been competing, but the Hatters have been busy recruiting new rowers for the fall 2016 team. Missouri rower Sarah Burnham kicked off the signing period for future Stetson rowers, and the team welcomed her with open arms in November. The Hatters plan to add a total of eight new rowers to their roster for the fall season.

Stephen Harris appointed new assistant rowing coach

Just this February, Stetson appointed experienced coach Stephen Harris to the current staff as assistant coach. He will work alongside Mark Wilson and Ryan Worth to help bring our rowers to victory this season and beyond.

Big plans for new aquatic center…

This past fall, we got exciting news from Stetson regarding a large scale project at Lake Beresford. The lake, which is already renowned for its excellent rowing conditions and environment, will be the site of a new $6 million aquatic center, a gift from Sandra Stetson herself (great-granddaughter of university benefactor and namesake John B. Stetson). The aquatic center will feature a water research facility, a native botanical garden, and more. Once completed, it will serve Stetson rowers, students and members of the general public looking to experience our nook of Central Florida in a new, meaningful way. 

…and the highly-anticipated Stetson Sprints

Finally, the event we’ve been looking forward to all winter long—the Stetson Sprints! This first event of the spring season will be held at Lake Beresford and is free to the public... so we hope to see you there!

Will you be watching when Stetson kicks off their season on March 5th? We’re expecting great things from Stetson’s two rowing teams this spring. In the meantime, be sure to visit GoHatters.com to stay up to date on your favorite teams or pick out spirited school gear to sport at your next event.