SHU Launches Varsity Men’s Rowing Team

Full program rollout begins in fall with recruiting and future facility plans

Key Highlights

• Sacred Heart University is adding a new varsity men’s rowing program
• The program reinforces SHU’s investment in expanding athletic opportunities and supporting student interests
• The team will compete in the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA), the top governing body for men’s collegiate rowing in the U.S.

Sacred Heart University is excited to announce the addition of its varsity men’s rowing program, further expanding the University’s athletics offerings and reinforcing its commitment to meeting the evolving interests of the student body.

The new program, expected to include approximately 60 student-athletes, will compete under the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA), the premier governing body for men’s collegiate rowing in the United States. The addition complements SHU’s varsity women’s rowing and women’s lightweight rowing teams.

Rowing has deep roots in Connecticut, with a long tradition of producing elite competitors through nationally recognized collegiate programs, competitive prep schools, and a growing network of high school and club teams. With participation continuing to rise at the scholastic level, SHU is well-positioned to support student-athletes seeking to continue their rowing careers in college.

Luke Wilhelm, head coach of women’s rowing, said a varsity men’s rowing team has not been added to the IRA in quite some time. He’s excited for the opportunities the new team opens for student-athletes interested in rowing. “Connecticut is a state known for rowing,” he said. “And rowing is having a boom right now.”

Wilhelm will oversee all rowing programs and their coaching staff, providing unified leadership and continuity across men’s and women’s teams. SHU is in the process of finding a men’s rowing head coach. Recruiting for the men’s program is set to begin in fall 2026, with the team expected to begin training in fall 2027.

The University’s rowing teams are set to move into a new home at a boathouse in Shelton owned by the Great River Water Club, which is scheduled to open next year. The facility will include indoor rowing tanks, rowing machines, a weight room, offices, space to hold events, and more. These modern athletic amenities are designed to support training, performance, and student-athlete development.

“The addition of men’s rowing reflects our commitment and investment to providing meaningful opportunities for our students,” said Judy Ann Riccio, SHU’s executive director of athletics. “This is the natural next step for us. Adding men’s rowing rounds out our whole program. We are excited to build on our strong rowing tradition and support the continued growth of the sport in our region.”