Looking for a college with a rowing team you can join? Or maybe you’re just curious about trying it out? Whether you’re a seasoned rower or just love the idea of getting on the water, finding the right program can make all the difference.
Colleges with rowing teams offer everything from intense varsity competition to more laid-back club vibes. Let’s jump into the top colleges, rankings, and what you should consider when choosing the perfect college rowing team for you.
- 8 Best College Rowing Teams
- NCSA College Rowing Team Rankings
- What to Look for in a College Rowing Team
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
8 Best College Rowing Teams
When it comes to colleges with rowing teams, some schools stand out for their history, success, and ability to churn out top-tier rowers. Let’s take a closer look at the heavy hitters in the world of collegiate rowing:
University of California (UC), Berkeley
The rowing program at UC Berkeley is one of the most respected in the world, and it’s easy to see why.
With 19 IRA National Championships, including their most recent win in 2023, the Golden Bears have solidified their place among rowing’s elite. The men’s team has claimed back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023, while the women’s team has multiple championship wins in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2006, 2010, and 2016.
Rowing has been part of Cal’s history since 1868, making it the first sport ever established at the university. Their tradition is unmatched, and they’re the only rowing program in the world to boast three Olympic gold medal-winning crews: 1928, 1932, and 1948.
Their training facilities are top-tier, with athletes practicing at the T. Gary Rogers Rowing Center on the Oakland Estuary and the Briones Reservoir, a private body of water nestled in Tilden National Park. The Simpson High Performance Center adds even more value, offering weight rooms, pools, physical therapists, dietitians, and study spaces to support student-athletes.
Cal’s dedication to excellence on and off the water continues to attract some of the best athletes from California and beyond. Their motto? “Get out in front, and stay there!” It’s a fitting mantra for a program with such a strong legacy of success.
The motto comes from Carroll “Ky” Ebright, one of UC Berkeley’s most legendary rowing coaches, who trained the team for 36 years. Ebright led the Golden Bears to three Olympic gold medals and cemented his place as one of the greatest and most revered coaches in collegiate rowing history.
Yale University
Yale University rowing is steeped in tradition. The men’s team has been around since 1843, making it one of the oldest in the country, and the women’s team, started in 1976, has been crushing it ever since.
When it comes to championships, Yale has taken home the IRA National Championship three times—in 2000, 2002, and 2005.
And who can forget the iconic Harvard-Yale Regatta? It’s been going strong since 1852 and is the oldest collegiate sporting event in the U.S. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love a good rivalry, this race is always one to watch.
Training happens on the Housatonic River, with top-notch facilities and a program that emphasizes hard work and precision. Yale’s approach has helped produce Olympians and world-class rowers, which makes it one of the most respected rowing teams in college sports.
University of Washington
The University of Washington’s rowing program is a legend in the rowing world. Founded in 1901, the Huskies have built a dynasty that dominates both national and international competitions.
With over 19 Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA) National Championships for the men’s team and 7 NCAA titles for the women’s team, Washington’s trophy shelf is packed.
Their men’s team achieved global fame with their dramatic win in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, a story so compelling it inspired the book The Boys in the Boat. Today, Washington’s rowers continue to frequently place at the top of major regattas like the Head of the Charles.
The Huskies have also collected an impressive number of additional trophies over the years:
- Kennedy Challenge Cup. 30 wins for second varsity eight.
- Stewards Cup. 29 wins for third varsity eight.
- Eric W. Will Trophy. 13 wins for varsity four.
- James Ten Eyck Memorial Trophy. 17 wins for overall points.
Their training facilities are world-class, with Lake Washington providing the perfect location for practices. The program’s emphasis on teamwork and grit makes it a magnet for rowers who want to excel on and off the water.
Stanford University
Stanford University’s rowing program is all about excellence, and their stats prove it. Founded in 1905, their rowing teams consistently rank among the best in the nation.
The lightweight women’s team has absolutely crushed it over the years, winning nine IRA National Championships between 2010 and 2019. And if that’s not impressive enough, they also went on a streak, taking home five consecutive IRA team national championships by 2019.
Their rowing program includes men’s, women’s, and lightweight teams, so there’s something for everyone. Plus, all three teams offer walk-on opportunities, which makes Stanford a great option if you’re eager to jump into the sport, even without years of experience.
Training at the stunning Redwood Shores Lagoon, with year-round sunny weather, doesn’t hurt either. Combine that with Stanford’s elite coaching and resources, and it’s easy to see why their rowers are among the best in the nation.
Harvard University
Harvard University’s rowing program is the definition of history and success. They’ve been at it since 1852, and it shows.
The men’s lightweight team recently crushed it at the 2024 IRA National Championships, winning in both the 1V and 2V categories. This was their tenth IRA title in program history and their first since 2013—a huge moment for the team.
Their 2024 season was nothing short of dominant, with an undefeated streak that included seven perfect weekends and wins at major events like the Eastern Sprints. Plus, their head coach, Billy Boyce, was named unanimous Ivy League Coach of the Year.
Harvard’s rowers train on the Charles River, one of the most famous spots in the sport. With amazing facilities and a coaching staff that knows how to push athletes to the next level, it’s no surprise that so many of their rowers go on to compete at the Olympics or world championships.
And hey, just reminding you of the Harvard-Yale Regatta—it’s the oldest college sports event in the U.S., dating back to 1852! If you’re into rowing mixed with a bit of history and some serious competition, you have to check out Harvard’s team.
Princeton University
Princeton University’s rowing program has a long and storied history that dates back to 1872, making it the university’s third varsity sport after baseball and football. It all started with a handful of undergraduates and two boats, teaching themselves to row on the Delaware and Raritan Canal. By 1874, the Princeton Boating Club was formed.
Over the years, the program grew to include men’s lightweight rowing in 1920, women’s open rowing in 1970, and women’s lightweight rowing in 1998, which solidified Princeton as a leader in collegiate rowing.
Fast forward to today, and Princeton is still crushing it. The men’s lightweight team has been on fire recently, winning back-to-back national championships in 2023 and 2024. The women’s lightweight team has dominated as well, as they earned 3 consecutive IRA National Championships from 2022 to 2024. Let’s not forget the women’s openweight Varsity Four, which snagged a national title in 2022.
Princeton rowers train on Lake Carnegie, a beautiful and high-performance setting that has been home to countless champions. Combine that with top-tier coaching, an incredible support system, and a culture of excellence, and it’s easy to see why Princeton continues to lead the pack in collegiate rowing.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
UCLA’s rowing program has been making waves (literally) since 1933, when it kicked off inspired by the 1932 Olympic Games held in Los Angeles. Back then, the team rowed at Long Beach Marine Stadium, a venue built for the Olympics, with their first coach, Major Goodsell, leading the charge. It was the start of something big for rowing in Southern California.
While UCLA hasn’t claimed any IRA National Championships yet, they’ve had some pretty cool moments and notable achievements over the years:
- Took the West Coast/Pac-8 Championship in 1967.
- Beat Oxford University in the UCLA Classic during the 1980s.
- Won the Pac-10 title in 1987.
- Finished third at the Collegiate Nationals in the 1990s.
Nowadays, UCLA’s rowing team competes as a club sport in the Pac-12 Conference. They train at Marina del Rey, which is as beautiful as it sounds. It gives rowers a chance to work hard while soaking in those SoCal vibes.
Even without a ton of national titles, UCLA’s history, dedication, and iconic location make it a program that stands out in its own way. It’s a great spot for student-athletes who want to row competitively and still enjoy everything that comes with being a Bruin.
University of Michigan
The University of Michigan’s rowing program has been a force in collegiate rowing since its founding in 1976. The Wolverines have a solid history of success, including producing 4 Olympians.
The team has won 2 IRA medals, and has the highest finish of a club team in an eights event at the IRA. The UMich college rowing team has also stood out in other major regattas like the ACRA National Championships and Dad Vail Regatta.
Since the sport became varsity in 1997, Michigan has competed in 24 of the 27 NCAA Championships regattas, which proves they are a consistent force in collegiate rowing.
Training on Belleville Lake, the Wolverines benefit from top-tier facilities and a culture of excellence. From strong performance in national regattas to their tradition of hard work, UMich’s college rowing team continues to set high standards for success. If you’re looking for a team with grit and history, UMich’s college rowing team is one to watch.
NCSA College Rowing Team Rankings
When it comes to picking the right college rowing program, rankings can be a helpful starting point. That’s where NCSA (Next College Student Athlete) comes in. As the largest college athletic recruiting platform, NCSA connects student-athletes with over 40,000 college coaches across 34 sports. They offer advice, resources, and rankings to help athletes find the perfect fit.
How NCSA ranks colleges with rowing teams
The NCSA Power Rankings aren’t just about win-loss records or championship titles. They take a deeper look at what makes a program great. Here’s how they figure it out:
- Student-athlete activity. They track activity on their platform, like which schools get the most searches, favorites, and communication from athletes. Programs that attract a lot of interest rank higher.
- Academic quality. Rankings from the U.S. News & World Report and data like graduation rates help gauge the academic strength of each school.
- Athletic success. A team’s performance in big competitions like the NCAA or IRA plays a big role.
- Cost and financial aid. They look at tuition and the average cost after financial aid to spotlight schools that are strong athletically and affordable.
- Additional data. They even use info from the U.S. Department of Education to round out the picture.
NCSA pulls all these factors together to create rankings that look at the bigger picture: schools that don’t just dominate in rowing but also offer strong academics and solid financial support. It’s all about helping student-athletes find the perfect fit, both on the water and in the classroom.
Women’s college rowing team rankings
According to NCSA’s 2024 rankings, here are the top schools for women’s rowing:
- Stanford University
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of Michigan
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)
- Princeton University
Men’s college rowing team rankings
Men’s programs bring just as much excitement to the water. Here’s a quick look at NCSA’s top-ranked schools for men’s rowing:
- Stanford University
- Princeton University
- University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
- Harvard University
- Yale University
At the end of the day, rankings are helpful, but to find the right program, think about the team culture, the coaching, and how the school feels like a fit for you. If you’re aiming to dominate on the water or just want a great balance between rowing and academics, there’s a perfect school out there waiting for you!
What to Look for in a College Rowing Team
More than just rankings and medals, finding the right college with the best rowing team is more about finding one that fits you. Here are some key factors to consider as you narrow down your choices:
- Location. Schools near big lakes or rivers, like Washington or Stanford, have amazing rowing conditions. Great water and facilities can make a huge difference in your training (and make practice way more enjoyable).
- Competition level. Do you want to compete at the NCAA or IRA level with a varsity team, or are you more into the laid-back vibe of a club team? Think about what works for you and your goals.
- Academic support. Balancing school and rowing can be tough. Look for schools that have solid resources for student-athletes, like tutoring or flexible class schedules. It’s important to succeed on and off the water.
- Coaching staff. A great coach can make all the difference, both in your rowing and your overall experience. Check out what the coaching staff is like—do their style and philosophy match what you’re looking for?
Ultimately, the best college rowing program is about finding a team and school that fit your goals and personality. If you’re drawn to Harvard’s historic regattas or UCLA’s sunny training grounds, focus on what feels right for you.
Take your time, explore your options, and remember: college rowing is about more than just racing—it’s about joining a community that helps you grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the top rowing colleges in the U.S.?
Some of the top rowing colleges in the U.S. include Stanford University, Princeton University, Harvard University, Yale University, and UC Berkeley. These schools often dominate college rowing rankings thanks to their competitive teams, excellent facilities, and strong traditions in the sport.
2. How are college rowing rankings determined?
College rowing rankings are based on factors like team performance in major events (e.g., NCAA and IRA championships), academic quality, and overall student-athlete support. Platforms like NCSA take these into account, along with affordability and athlete interest, to rank colleges with rowing teams.
3. Are there scholarships available at colleges with rowing teams?
Yes, many colleges with rowing teams, especially top rowing colleges like Stanford, Harvard, and Yale, offer athletic scholarships for rowers. The amount and availability vary by school and division level, so it’s a good idea to check with each college’s athletic department for specifics.
4. What’s the difference between varsity and club rowing teams?
Varsity rowing teams are typically more competitive, with a focus on high-level training and racing in events like the NCAA and IRA championships. Club rowing teams, while still competitive, often have a more relaxed atmosphere and are open to rowers of all skill levels. Both options are available at many colleges with rowing teams.
5. What should I consider when choosing a college rowing program?
When looking at colleges with rowing teams, consider factors like location (water conditions matter!), competition level (varsity vs. club), coaching staff, and academic support. Top rowing colleges often balance athletic excellence with strong academic programs, so choose a school that fits your goals both on and off the water.
Takeaways
Choosing between colleges with rowing teams can feel overwhelming, but focusing on the key points can make the process easier. Here’s a quick summary to help you with your options:
- Top rowing colleges offer more than just trophies. Schools like Stanford, Yale, and Princeton combine strong rowing programs with excellent academics and resources to support student-athletes.
- Location and facilities matter. Colleges with rowing teams near large lakes or rivers, like Washington or UMich, often have the best training environments, which can elevate your rowing experience.
- Whether you’re chasing NCAA championships or just want to row for fun, the competition level you’re comfortable with will help you narrow down your list of colleges.
- Don’t overlook academic support. Top rowing colleges often have tutoring, flexible schedules, and other resources to help student-athletes balance rowing and schoolwork.
- Struggling to find the perfect fit? With the help of a college admissions consultant, you don’t have to do it alone. From identifying the best rowing colleges for your goals to creating standout applications, AdmissionSight is here to make the process stress-free.
