The Pacific Lutheran University women's rowing team, led by interim Head Coach Sienna Mathes, aims to surpass expectations in the 2024 spring season with a young roster looking to reclaim the conference championship. The team, predominantly composed of first-years, is anchored by seasoned veterans like Julez Johnson and Carleigh Templin, both with NCAA Division III Championships experience. Despite being a rebuilding year, the squad's leaders, including Johnson and Templin, are driving a culture of enthusiasm and determination to propel the team to new heights.

The Big Picture

The team's transition from a dominant phase to a rebuilding year underscores the challenges and opportunities faced by collegiate sports programs in cultivating talent and maintaining competitive performance levels.

By the Numbers
  • Julez Johnson has earned All-Northwest Conference honors twice and is a two-time CRCA All-American.
  • The varsity eight finished sixth at the Charlie Brown Regatta and ninth at the Head of the Lake in the fall competitions.
State of Play
  • Most of the team comprises first-year rowers, with a focus on developing a strong foundation for future seasons.
  • The team is slated to compete in four regattas before the 2024 NWC Championships.
  • The Lutes were predicted to finish fourth in the NWC coaches' poll, indicating an upcoming season of intense competition within the conference.
What's Next

As the team embarks on a competitive spring schedule, the focus shifts to executing race plans, fostering consistency, and leveraging the drive and enthusiasm of both seasoned veterans and promising newcomers.

Bottom Line

The Pacific Lutheran women's rowing team faces a pivotal season of rebuilding and growth, anchored by a mix of experienced leaders and energetic newcomers, setting the stage for a determined pursuit of excellence amidst a competitive collegiate rowing landscape.