By Michael Callahan
Head Coach, Washington Men’s Rowing
Washington Men’s Rowing captured the 2021 IRA National Championship. Of the many storied wins in program history, this one mattered more than ever — and we had to lose to get to this moment.
In 2016, after becoming the first team in rowing history to win five consecutive IRA National Championships (2011–15), we finished fourth and ended our 12-year run as Team Points Champion. We needed to return to our foundational principles: patience, passion and work.
In the following years, we repeated the mantra, “Do the Work” as we expanded the meaning of work. We focused on building stronger teammates, healthier minds and mature leaders. We invested in developing student-athletes who were prepared to embrace and learn from challenges. Our work as coaches wasn’t to pull a team across the finish line; it was to teach and then get out of the way.
After finishing second in 2017, 2018 and 2019, our 2020 season was cancelled. COVID became the ultimate test of our athletes’ ability to weather evolving challenges. “Semper Gumby” (always flexible) was our motto. With uncertainty still dominating 2021, one day at a time, we began to train.
The qualities we had focused on building for over five years were evident. With joy, humility and gratitude, we practiced the sport we love with deeply committed teammates, friends and staff. Rowing for Washington was what mattered.
Going into the IRA National Championship, the other coaches and I could see our success reflected in the extraordinary group of leaders and teammates our athletes had become. They understood they were part of something bigger than themselves. That’s what mattered to us.
Throughout it all, Tyee Club members like you sustained us — just as you inspired all 22 Washington teams and programs. This publication showcases the impact of your support that mattered all the more during the pandemic.
You, the Husky community, matter. Thank you for being a part of something special here at Washington.
