As I mentioned, we have plenty of new faces at the Boathouse and I would like to introduce them briefly. The transitions have been very smooth on both teams and we have a fun and productive atmosphere at the Boathouse.
Men’s Coaches
- Ronnie Cantrell, Head Novice Coach: Ronnie sculled successfully as a junior in Ann Arbor, MI. He then rowed and studied at Oxford-Brooks in the UK. His illustrious coaching experience ranges from juniors to college, including Saratoga, Michigan State Women, and University of Michigan Men. Ronnie had a great start with us. I would describe his style as technically meticulous as Alan and as calm as Walker.
- Cailly O’Toole, Varsity Assistant Coach: Cailly served on the Ohio State Women (D1) coaching staff since 2019 and as the Head Novice Coach for the 2023-2024 season. Cailly brings some “calm fire” to the mix; both assertive and kind. Her keen eye for the stroke and quick-wittedness made for an easy transition from coaching women to our guys.
Women’s Coaches
- Wes Ng, Head Coach: Wesley Ng joined Virginia Rowing in June, making him the second Head Coach in the program’s history. Before coming to UVA, Ng served as the Head Coach of the University of Pennsylvania’s program from 2015-2023. Learn more about Wes.
- Helen Samaniego (Col ’10), Assistant Coach: Helen Samaniego returned to Charlottesville in July after serving as Texas’ Assistant Coach. Prior to her time there, Samaniego coached at the University of Pennsylvania under Wes Ng. Learn more about Helen.
- Josie Konopka, Assistant Coach: Josie joined the Virginia Rowing program in July after previously serving as an Assistant Coach at the University of Pennsylvania under Wes Ng. Learn more about Josie.
- Taylor Ruden, Assistant Coach: Taylor joined the Virginia Rowing program in July after previously serving as Ohio State’s Assistant Coach from 2020-2024. Learn more about Taylor.
We are off to a great start, and we are excited to see what this year will bring to Virginia Rowing!
Go Hoos!
Frank Biller