The CRCA All-American Awards recognize the most outstanding collegiate rowers and coxswains across all NCAA divisions and the lightweight category. These athletes have demonstrated elite athletic performance, leadership, consistency, and dedication throughout the season, earning distinction among the top rowers in the nation.
This prestigious recognition honors athletes who have contributed significantly to their teams while meeting high standards in competition and training. The All-American teams also serve as the foundation for the selection of Athlete of the Year Finalists—with one ultimate Athlete of the Year selected from each division. Below are the 2026 Athletes of the Year.
Lucy Searle, University of Texas
“This award reflects the standard Texas Rowing sets, a standard defined by how we train, compete and raise the bar for each other. Our consistency comes from how we show up every day under Dave O’Neill. The drive and determination from every member of the team has shaped me as an athlete.” – Lucy Searle
Taylor Wall, Western Washington University
“For me, being Athlete of the Year is something that goes beyond me as an individual. It’s a culmination of experiences and people in my life who have given me the necessary tools to perform to the best of my ability. None of my successes would be possible if I were on my own. My experience as a rower for Western Washington University has given me the gift of being a part of an incredible legacy. The amazing thing about a legacy is that it never started or ended with me, yet I have been fortunate enough to be a part of it. Thank you to everyone who has been in my corner! And to my teammates: you all inspire me everyday and I have learned more from you all than I will ever know.” – Taylor Wall
Rose Tinkjian, Tufts University
“Receiving this award means more to me than I can put into words. At the same time, I don’t feel I can accept this honor without recognizing my team, because none of it would have been possible without every single one of them. Rowing is the ultimate team sport, and I take immense pride in having grown alongside such fierce, dedicated women in an environment filled with support, trust, and love. I would not be nearly the athlete or person I am today without the encouragement of my teammates and the guidance of such passionate coaches. This third title was the result of innumerable hours of work behind the scenes, all of which allowed us to race with freedom, confidence, and trust in one another. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of a crew like this. More than anything, I hope this honor is something that every member of TUWC feels connected to and can take pride in, because it truly belongs to all of us. Thank you all for everything.” – Rose Tinkjian
Cate Barry, Princeton University
“I am truly honored to receive this award, and I am so excited to share this recognition with my teammates and coaches, whom I am exceptionally fortunate to row alongside and learn from. My teammates on Princeton Lights are not only incredibly talented athletes, but also remarkably hardworking and selfless individuals. Every day I am inspired by the way they challenge, support, and believe in one another. They are there to celebrate every success, and stand by me through every setback. I would also like to thank my coaches at Princeton for always setting a standard of excellence, and guiding us every step of the way. While I am so proud of the success this team has achieved on the water, I am even more proud of the resilience, camaraderie, and commitment to one another that each and every member of this team brings to our program. Thank you again for this recognition. I am deeply grateful and proud to represent Princeton Lightweight Rowing. As always, Go Tigers!” – Cate Barry
