Bryant University Women's Crew

The History of Bryant Rowing

In the spring of 2010, a high school senior named Nicola Dechamps was looking at prospective colleges.  The search brought Nicola and her parents to Bryant University.  She loved the campus and the school's academic programs, but something was missing.

During the family’s campus tour, she met a man who introduced himself as Mr. Ron Machtley, President of Bryant University.  Mr. Machtley asked Nicola if she would enroll and Nicola wavering because Bryant didn’t have a rowing team.  Nicola explained that she had rowed in high school for four years and that was her passion.  President Machtley quickly responded with, "Well, why don’t you come here and start a rowing program?” As it turned out, that is exactly what Nicola did.

In the fall of 2010, Nicola recruited a small team and began to work out logistics with the Student Senate, Athletic Department, and Club Sport Department.  In the Spring of 2011, her “crew” began land training and just before the semester let out they were able to actually get out on the water a few times.

In the fall of 2011, a coach was hired, docks were put in on Still Water Reservoir, and the team began to practice on the water regularly.  By the spring of 2012 the team entered its first full race season and began traveling as far as Philadelphia for regattas.

At this point Bryant Women’s Rowing Team has over 30 active members and is making a name for itself by winning local club regattas. To learn more about Bryant Rowing's Histiry, scroll over and click on the above title to watch a short video.

The team is always looking for new recruits. If you or anyone you know is interested Rowing for Bryant, please contact Head Coach Mark LaBossiere at:  MarkLaBossiere@gmail.com or Club President Michelle Ly at: MLy@Bryant.edu. The team would be more than happy to offer you a tour of our facility or show you what we are all about.