East Michigan News

The Eastern Michigan University (EMU) rowing team is set to begin a three-regatta homestand with a competition against Michigan State University on Saturday, April 5, at the EMU Rowing Course at Ford Lake in Ypsilanti, Michigan. The event will commence at 10 a.m.

Both teams will participate in several races, including the 3V8+, 1V4+, 2V8+, and 1V8+. Spectators can view the races at Ford Lake Park and will be required to pay a $5 parking fee. EMU is providing complimentary coffee and donuts for fans, subject to availability.

Recently, EMU competed at the Doc Hosea Invitational on the Cooper River, where their 1V8+ boat qualified for the Grand Final. Other boats, such as the 2V8+ and 1V4+, also showcased strong performances. The team's previous encounter with Michigan State in spring competition was on April 2, 2022, with notable performances.

Head Coach Kemp Savage and student-athlete Lily Wilhelm recently achieved recognition by leading the United States women's eights boat to victory at the World University Championships. "Winning is hard to put into words," Savage said. Wilhelm added, "I was happy to even go and have the opportunity, but to win was just so exciting."

Assistant Coach Lucie Roy was added to the coaching staff following her tenure as Head Men's and Women's Rowing Coach at Adrian College. She has previous rowing experience at Michigan State University.

Eastern Michigan's rowing team concluded its previous season with top finishes at the Coastal Athletic Association championships. Honored for her performance was Reagan Fazekas. The team is preparing for upcoming MAC rowing championships as announced by the Mid-American Conference.

In academics, 18 EMU rowing student-athletes were named Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association National Scholar-Athletes, highlighting their success both on the water and in the classroom.

Additionally, Eastern Michigan's rowing program benefits from a newly renovated erg room within the George Gervin GameAbove Center, offering improved training facilities for the team.

The team will next host the Ford Lake Cup on Saturday, April 26, featuring potential future members of the Mid-American Conference women's rowing competition.