Football and basketball are two great games with millions of fans worldwide today. But then, this article is about the game of rowing, which dates to 1852. Many rowing fans love to stick around their best college rowing teams. Hence, around two percent (2%) of 8,400 college athletes are part of collegiate rowing teams.
In the year 1852, Yale University challenged Harvard, its biggest rival at the time to a boat race. Hence, that was the kickoff of the intercollegiate event in the United States.
One interesting fact about rowing is that you don’t need high school rowing experience to become a member of a college rowing team. Therefore, if you are enthusiastic about rowing, in this article are the top 15 best college rowing teams you should consider.
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Who Organizes the Rowing Team?
The organizing body for college rowing teams is different for men and women. While Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA) oversees men’s rowing teams, NCAA authorizes women’s collegiate rowing teams.
They compete at the IRA National Championship and the NCAA Division I Rowing Championship.
Among many collegiate sports, rowing is among the few with very tough and vibrant clubs. Hence, not every school has an authorized IRA and NCAA rowing team. Yet, all non-compliant NCAA/IRA teams can still qualify to participate in the American Collegiate Rowing Association (ACRA) National Championship Regatta.
What are the Different Categories of Rowing?
College rowing has four different categories. Which is the Men’s Rowing, Women’s Rowing, Lightweight Rowing, and Freshman Rowing.
Men’s Rowing
Men’s rowing is not affiliated with the National Collegiate Athletic Association. It falls under the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA) championship. Any team that emerges the winner of the varsity 8+ games in each category becomes the National champion.
The First Varsity 8 men’s collegiate rowing is for the fastest boats. Oarsmen that did not make it to the varsity 8 make up the second Varsity eight.
Also, those that did not make it to the second fall in the Third Varsity 8. Rowers who did not make it to the top eight fall into the groups of fours depending on the race. While this applies to the IRA, it is not so with other competitions like the Pac-10 Championship and the Eastern Sprinter. In 2015, the IRA stroke out freshman races.
Women’s Rowing
Women’s College Rowing is authorized by the NCAA Championship and divided into three categories:
- NCAA Division I Rowing ChampionshipNCAA Division II Rowing Championship
- NCAA Division III Rowing Championship
Over the past five years, there has been tremendous growth in women’s collegiate rowing. FISA and Olympic course distances for women’s rowing increased from one to two thousand meters in 1985. The margin became equal to that of the men, which was a leap in the public perception of the woman’s strength, competitive energy, and stamina.
Lightweight Rowing
Joseph Wright’s move to Penn University in 1916, was the first step in the foundation of a lightweight rowing team. In 1919, the American Rowing association officially authorized lightweight rowing as a competition.
The teams have oarsmen maxing 150 pounds. However, lately, the weight of the lightweight is closer to that of the heavyweight team. The current weight of 160lbs for men and 130lbs for women is now ideal for lightweight rowing. In this category, there are different races for men and women.
Freshman Rowing
Due to the technicality of rowing, there is a separate category for novices (people with less than one year of rowing experience). Novices join the Freshmen who may have high school rowing experience.
However, Freshmen are usually people in their first year. Students who begin to row after their Freshman year join the novice team.
The novice team usually consists of the freshman eight-oared boat (8+). In the case of a large team, there will be a need for a second eight or four-oared (4+) boat.
Apart from the EARC and IRA, collegiate freshmen/novices participate in competitions as part of the varsity team. Nevertheless, in the annual meeting of IRA stewards in 2012, they voted to revoke the ban on freshmen competing as varsity team members.
How is the College Rowing Season Organized?
Rowing is a sport for every season. There are competitions all year round with races in the Winter, Fall, and Summer. However, official collegiate competitions come up in Spring.
Rowing has two types of racing they are Sprint and head races. Sprint races come up in the Spring, Summer, and Winter, and covers 2000m. Head races come up in the Fall and generally covers 5000m. Head races are long-distance races and come up in the fall.
The Fall is a time for universities to focus on building technical skills and improving stamina and physical strength. Through long steady performances and short races, they train a team, that is, ready to compete in Spring.
Since the Fall is also the time for the head races, it also forms part of the preparation for the collegiate games. Head races help to build team row stamina and mental toughness.
The Head of the Charles Regatta is the largest fall race and is held in Boston every October. Rowers of all ages can take part in this competition. It also features some of the best college rowing teams that compete with Olympic standard athletes around the United States.
There is also the Princeton Chase in Fall, which is the largest collegiate-only regatta. The competition comes up in November and Princeton University hosts the event. The venue for the race is Lake Carnegie in Princeton, New Jersey.
The Rutgers Fall Classic is also for first-years and novice crews from college. The competition takes place on the Raritan River, New Brunswick, in New Jersey.
In the Winter, many colleges prepare for Spring games. For any college that wants to present the best college rowing teams for the spring games, Winter is the preparation season. Long-distance races usually make up the training sessions.
Towards the end of the season, the long sessions become shorter and more intense. For schools below the snowline, training holds on the water. Others rely on indoor rowing tanks, row simulators, ergometers, etc., to practice for the Spring games.
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Top 15 Best College Rowing Teams in 2024
- Harvard University
- Yale University
- Brown University
- Columbia University
- Ohio State University
- Northeastern University
- Grand Valley State University
- Oregon State University
- Boston University
- Cornell University
- Dartmouth University
- Drexel University
- Georgetown University
- Michigan State University
- Clemson University
#1. Harvard University
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Tuition fees: $51,925
NCAA Division I
For a long time, Harvard University has remained number one on the list of the top-ranking universities in the world for rowing. Both the men’s and women’s rowing teams have won numerous awards and national championships. Their feats include winning every Intercollegiate Rowing Association’s National Championships every odd year starting from 1989 to 2003.
Harvard remains one of the first universities in history to host a rowing team. They are also among the famous participants competing in the Harvard-Yale Regatta. Over the years, Harvard has grown into a world-standard educational institution.
With its strong support for educational diversity, Harvard is an excellent institution for education and sports. For more information about academics and life at Harvard, visit the following link.
#2. Yale University
New Haven, Connecticut
Tuition fees: $55,500
NCAA Division I
Yale University is the next thing that comes to mind when you talk of rowing colleges. It remains at the top of the best colleges for rowing teams behind Harvard. Since the university began its rowing journey in 1843, it has been a glorious ride down the timeline. Besides having the oldest rowing crew club in the United States, they have won many awards and trophies. Some of their recent achievements include:
- The men’s lightweight National Championship (2000)
- The Henley Royal Regatta Temple College Cup (2000)
- Men’s Lightweight Eastern Sprints (2001)
- The Jope cup (2001)
- Women’s Henley (women’s varsity 2001)
- Men’s Intercollegiate Rowing Association (2005, 2017, 2018)
- NCAA Women’s National Championships (runners-up 2004)
Yale University has grown over the years into a large institution that provides a comprehensive educational experience.
They have some of the best affordable liberal colleges, conventional college cities, a pacific Northwest college that is very affordable, and excellent online college near me experience. For more information about Yale University admission and tuition fees, visit the college’s official website.
#3. Brown University
Providence, Rhode Island
Tuition fees: $58,404
NCAA Division I
Among some of Brown University’s sports records, rowing is their oldest sport. Brown University remains one of the major contenders behind Harvard and Yale, with 32 Olympic rowers to their record.
The university has a huge advantage over the rest in preparation. Their proximity to the Seekonk River provides a great training ground for the rowing team. The Seekonk River’s strong current and hard rowing terrain is an excellent preparation ground for professional rowing.
Brown University men’s team is the winner of the Ivy League Championship (2008) and the Ladies Plate Challenge Cup at the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta in London (2009) and won most of the events at the Eastern Sprints (2009). Equally, the women’s rowing team has won six NCAA championships since 2000. To learn more about admissions to Brown University, click the link.
#4. Columbia University
New York, New York
Tuition Fees: $61,788
NCAA Division I
Columbia University Rowing team is strategically located and runs across exciting landmarks like the George Washington Bridge and the Yankee Stadium. The male rowing team is sanctioned by the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA), while the female team serves as a competitive club sport.
Columbia University made its first appearance in an intercollegiate regatta in 1873. However, over the past decade, Columbia University has remained a standard to be reckoned with in women’s rowing.
2015 was exceptional for Columbia’s female rowing team as their lightweight 8 and 4 ranked second in the IRA National Championship. Another feat in 2015 was reaching the semifinal stage at the Henley Royal Regatta in London.
Moving on to 2016, the lightweight eight emerged champions of the IRA National Championship. Also, the team participated in the Henley Royal Regatta in London. In 2018 the lightweight eight were gold medalists at the Eastern Sprints.
They also won the Jope Cup for the first time in the history of Columbia. Ever since the university rowing team has remained in the spotlight among the best college rowing teams.
Columbia University has been among the leading institutions for over 250 years in education. It also boasts of great sports activities and social life. For more information about admission and links to the various Columbia schools, click the link.
#5. The Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio
Title: Buckeyes
Tuition Fees: $32,061
NCAA Division I
Another school with a top-ranking NCAA-approved women’s rowing team is the Ohio State University. While Ohio state university may not be as influential as the other universities on our list, its women’s rowing team remains not a walk-over team.
The team is eight times Big Ten season champions (2002, 2006, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017). Besides the Big Ten, they are also three times NCAA National Champions from 2013-2015.
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#6. Northeastern University
Boston, Massachusetts
Tuition Fees: $53, 506
NCAA Division I
Ranking among the best college rowing teams is the Northeastern university rowing team. The University is home to rowing teams (men and women) authorized by the IRA and NCAA. Northeastern University men’s rowing team has made several successful appearances like the Eastern Sprint and IRA National Championship.
On the other hand, the women’s team is also noteworthy. From 1997 to 2000, they reached the NCAA National Championships four times. They also reached the CAA Championship five times in 2009, 2011,2012, 2014, and 2015.
Northeastern University does not only provide you the opportunity to be part of an excellent rowing team. It is also an opportunity to build a career and a future.
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#7. Grand Valley State University
Allendale, Michigan
Tuition Fees: $13,244
NCAA Division II
In terms of club crews, Grand Valley State University is among the top rankers in the nation. The team has constantly come out tops in some of the most prestigious events like the Head of Charles Regatta in Boston, the Royal Henley Regatta in London, the Dad Vail Regatta, and the international race of Eights.
The most impressive of all Grand Valley performances is winning the National Championship title of the American College Rowing Association five years straight (2008-2012). They also host the Lubbers Cup Regatta in Spring Lake, Michigan.
One thing about Grand Valley State University is that they prepare you for the next stage in life. Whether for a fresh or a graduate student, the college has the skills and academic facilities to prepare you for what is coming next.
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#8. Oregon State University
Corvallis, Oregon
Title: Beavers
Tuition Fees: $31,215
NCAA Division I
Oregon State University has a successful men’s and women’s rowing team authorized by the IRA and NCAA accordingly. While both teams are very competitive, the men’s rowing team remains a formidable force in the game. Oregon State Beavers have pulled an impressive performance since 200, with excellent performances at the Pac-10 competitions.
Also, in the 2007 San Diego Crew Classic, the Beavers were second position and 10th in the IRA Championship. The Beavers have produced thirteen United States Olympic and national team representatives. They include personalities like Joey Hansen, Josh Inman, and Chris Callaghan.
An opportunity at Oregon State University is an opportunity to harness your inner potential. With over 200 Undergraduate and 100 graduate programs, Oregon State University provides an excellent background to help you excel in your career path. At Oregon University, there is always a place for you. To be part of the college rowing team or to pursue an academic career in Oregon, follow the link.
#9. Boston University
Boston, Massachusetts
Title: Terriers
Tuition Fees: $55,892
NCAA Division I
When it comes to rowing, Boston University is one with a lot of rowing experience. Boston University men’s rowing team competes in the Eastern Association of Rowing Colleges (EARC). On the other hand, the women participate in the Eastern Association of Women’s Rowing (EAWRC).
The two competitions are the most competitive competitions when it comes to collegiate rowing. Recently, the Boston university’s women’s rowing team is very successful. Boston University Terriers were back-to-back champions in 1991 and 1992.
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#10. Cornell University
Ithaca, New York
Tuition Fees: $55,892
NCAA Division I
If you are looking for a university with active rowing teams, visit Cornell University. Both the men’s and women’s rowing teams actively compete in the EARC and EAWRC individually.
Even though both teams have outstanding performances, the men’s varsity team’s performance is exceptional. The lightweight crew has won six IRA National Championship Regattas, which include 2006-2008 and 2015-2017.
While you have a lot of choices to select from when thinking of a college, Cornell provides you with a unique and rewarding experience. In line with Ezra Cornell’s vision, the college takes a liberal and practical approach to education.
At Cornell University, students enjoy the liberty of researching any topics they love. Explore the things others know and view the world from a diverse perspective. To learn more about Cornell University, visit the official college portal.
#11. Dartmouth University
Hanover, New Hampshire
Tuition Fees: $57,638
NCAA Division I
Among all the sports at Dartmouth College, rowing is the most prevalent. There are over 200 students that participate in rowing at Dartmouth College. Some teams that makeup Dartmouth college rowing include the men’s heavy and lightweight rowing teams.
Both the lightweight and the heavyweight men’s rowing teams participate in the Eastern Association of Rowing Colleges competition and are under the authorization of the IRA.
Besides the men’s rowing team, the college has a strong women’s open-weight rowing team authorized by the NCAA. Dartmouth university has remained an excellent foundation for Olympic rowers and National Team members since 1833. The team owes a lot of its success to the Connecticut River.
Since 1769, Dartmouth has remained one of the leading forces in education. They provide both undergraduate and graduate opportunities for students. They also allow students to be part of multidisciplinary research programs. You can begin your journey to a better and more fulfilling future at Dartmouth University by following the link.
#12. Drexel University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Title: Dragons
Tuition Fees: $18,865
NCAA Division I
Drexel University boasts vibrant rowing teams. The Intercollegiate Rowing Association and the NCAA authorize both teams. Even though the rowing team has never won an IRA or NCAA championship, there are other areas where they prove very formidable.
In 2010, two of Drexel’s men’s rowing teams were first positions at the Dad Vail Regatta. Also, the women’s varsity team ranked first in the Elite Eight Championship in England at the Royal Henley Women’s Regatta.
Schooling a Drexel will provide you with an exciting opportunity to come one-on-one with the exciting rowing team. In addition, it provides you the opportunity to position yourself for success.
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#13. Georgetown University
Washington D.C.
Tuition Fees: $56,058
NCAA Division I
Since its inception in 1876, the George Town University rowing club has continued a steady growth path. Notwithstanding, its eleven-year interruption, the world war, and lack of interest, the performance remains commendable.
In 1963, the Georgetown university established its first female rowing, alongside the men’s team. Again, in 1996 Georgetown varsity women’s lightweight team was instituted.
In recent years the various teams have been very successful. Among its achievements includes the invitation to prestigious events like Henley Royal Regatta in England and the Eastern Sprints.
In 2016, George Town University lightweight fours (men) became the IRA Regatta Champions. They became one of the most recent national champions from Georgetown.
The United States National team has two national team members from Georgetown. A personality like Bradley Cooper was also a part of the George Town Varsity rowing team.
An academic career at Georgetown University is an opportunity to understand your world and peers. Georgetown University is a community of people contributing to improving peer-to-peer relationships and our world.
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#14. Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan
Tuition Fees: $39,766
NCAA Division I
Michigan State University does not currently have a men’s rowing team. However, they have a vibrant women’s rowing team called the Spartans. While the program may be growing, the rate is also rapid. Hence, it deserves a spot on this list of the top 15 best college rowing teams.
The team has a good standing with the NCAA and is a frequent competitor in the NCAA championships finishing with a personal best of sixth place.
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#15. Clemson University
Clemson, South Carolina
Tuition Fees: $38,550
NCAA Division I
Clemson University boasts of a strong women’s rowing team. However, they do not have a rowing team for men. In 2009, Clemson women’s rowing team emerged as ACC Team Champions. In the same year, their varsity 4+ team became the champions of the NCAA individual Champions. Thanks to the intense training at lake Hartwell.
An education at Clemson University is an opportunity to explore more than an academic field. It’s a chance to be a part of the top 15 best college rowing teams in 2024. Clemson is an opportunity to pursue your unique goals while working with some of the great minds on campus as a team.
Depending on whether you are a resident of the United States or an International student, the application method may differ.
Follow the link for more information about applying to Clemson University.
FAQs About Best College Rowing Teams
Q1. Are there any special requirements to join a college rowing team?
For some schools, a background in rowing is necessary to join the college novice or freshers rowing team. However, other colleges only require your desire and determination to allow you into the team.
Q2. What options are available for non-sanctioned rowing teams?
Non-sanctioned rowing teams can participate in the American Collegiate Rowing Association (ACRA) National Championship Regatta.
The International Rowing Association (IRA) is responsible for authorizing varsity rowing teams for men.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is responsible for authorizing varsity rowing teams for women.
Q5. Is it compulsory to row in high school to land a position in the top rowing crew?
No. It is not a necessary step to have a high school rowing experience to be part of the top rowing crew in college. All you require is determination and the right college.
Q6. When was the first intercollegiate rowing race held?
The first intercollegiate rowing activity was held in 1852 between Yale and Harvard university rowing teams.
Conclusion
Rowing remains one of the oldest and most prominent intercollegiate sports. Today, there are more women than men in participation. Between the 2018-2019 academic years, they were 2,340 (57 teams) males against 7,294 (148) female participants in the game. As tough as rowing can be, it is a great way to build physical and mental strength and endurance.
Some of the best college rowing teams have many years of experience and titles. However, the good thing about rowing is that anybody can become a star. It’s all about hard work and the willingness to work hard.
References
Collegevaluesonline.com—30 Best Colleges for Rowing
Wikipedia.org—College Rowing in the United States
Pcrarowing.com—Rowing by the Season
Ncsasports.org—Best Women’s Rowing Colleges
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