The CRCA Coach and Staff of the Year Awards honor the exceptional leaders behind the success of collegiate rowing programs across all NCAA divisions and the lightweight category. These awards recognize those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, competitive achievement, and a deep commitment to the student-athletes and teams they guide.
Whether through championship performance, transformative program growth, or the cultivation of team culture, these awards celebrate the individuals and staffs who elevate the sport and embody the values of excellence, integrity, and impact. Below are the national winners.
Dave O’Neill, University of Texas
“It was a terrific year, and I’m certainly honored to be selected coach of the year by my colleagues. Of course, all the credit goes to team. It was an absolute pleasure to coach them throughout the year. Despite not everything going our way, everyone stuck together and did something special in the end. I’m forever grateful for everyone’s attitude and effort throughout the entire year.” – Coach Dave O’Neill
Courtney Moeller, Western Washington University
“To be recognized as Coach of the Year by a community of coaches I deeply respect is an incredible honor. But rowing is a team sport, and none of what we accomplished this year would be possible without the commitment and trust of our student-athletes and staff. I’m incredibly proud to be a Viking and am grateful for the opportunity to continue building on the strong foundation of WWU Rowing.” – Coach Courtney Moeller
Lily Siddall, Tufts University
“It means a lot to serve as the women’s head coach and I’m grateful for the opportunities we had this spring. It’s been 40 years of tufts women’s rowing so it was fun to celebrate that!” – Coach Lily Siddall
Kate McFetridge, Princeton University
“I’m grateful for this honor and to be a Princeton Tiger! I feel incredibly fortunate for the opportunity to learn from and follow the example of Princeton’s outstanding head coaches. Our team is made up of incredible racers and athletes, and I am so happy to have had the chance to go after a goal and achieve it with them.” – Coach Kate McFetridge
University of Texas
“I’m really proud of the work of the entire staff, and they are very deserving of this recognition. Everyone has their individual skillset and responsibility, but, most importantly, the collaboration and willingness to do whatever is needed for the betterment of the team is what makes working with them special. It’s really fun working with such a talented, committed and professional group of individuals.” – Coach Dave O’Neill
Western Washington University
This award is especially meaningful because it recognizes the collective effort behind our program. Our staff shows up every day with deep care and commitment to our student-athletes, including our administrative staff whose work behind the scenes makes so much of what we do possible.
I’m especially grateful for Maddie’s leadership in building such a large novice group and setting them up for immediate success, Paige’s steady dedication to the program, and Damien, Jerrod, and Masa for the essential work they do to keep our athletes healthy, supported, and ready to perform at their best. It’s a privilege to be part of this team, and I can’t think of a more deserving group.” – Coach Courtney Moeller
Tufts University
“I can’t say enough good things about Ethan, Kobe, and Kaity, our on water coaches, and Paul our strength coach. It truly was a team effort. Positivity and consistency!” – Coach Lily Siddall
Princeton University
“I am elated that our staff is being recognized nationally for their dedication to our team this year. The success of Princeton Lightweight Women’s Rowing this season was made possible by those who care deeply about our student-athletes and the Princeton rowing community. Our administration, athletic trainers, dietitians, sports psych department, strength and conditioning staff, boathouse directors, and SID team are incredibly devoted and skilled.
Assistant Coach Chris Pedicone was an invaluable source of experience throughout the year and a real stabilizer for our program. Chris brings joy to our team, and we are incredibly lucky to have him.
When our ladies showed up to the starting line this season, they knew they had an army behind them.” – Coach Kate McFetridge
