University of Bridgeport Launches Varsity Rowing Teams; McNamara and Auger Named First Head Coaches

Bridgeport, CT - Dec 12, 2024 – University of Bridgeport (UB) is excited to announce the expansion of its varsity athletic offerings with the addition of men's and women's rowing in the fall of 2025. The launch of this program is being made possible through a generous donation from Howard Winklevoss, founder of RowAmerica, an organization dedicated to advancing the sport of rowing. UB's women's crew team, led by head coach Mary Jean (MJ) McNamara, will compete at the NCAA Division II level, while the men's team will participate in the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA) under head coach Luke Auger.

"Today marks an exciting milestone for University of Bridgeport, UB athletics, and the greater Bridgeport community," said Jay Moran, UB's vice president for athletics and recreation. "The addition of Rowing to our athletic offerings reflects our commitment to innovation and fostering partnerships that strengthen both the University and the greater Bridgeport community." Moran continued, "I can't wait to see our teams hit the water and proudly represent UB!" 

UB President Danielle Wilken celebrated the announcement as a reflection of the University's values, saying, "Rowing exemplifies the teamwork, resilience, and determination that we strive to instill in our students. This program will inspire our student-athletes and forge deeper connections within the UB and Bridgeport communities." She continued, "I look forward to witnessing the profound impact this sport will have on campus and beyond. I am deeply appreciative of the support of Howard Winklevoss and the RowAmerica team for their support, both in the form of their expertise and financial commitment. Their transformational gift will impact not only University of Bridgeport but will also help change the landscape of the waterfront in Bridgeport. " 

Founded by Howard Winklevoss in 2003, RowAmerica has been a prominent force in the rowing community. The organization operates a 50,000-square-foot manufacturing facility near UB, and Winklevoss' support will fund essential start-up costs, including boats and water training facilities.

Winklevoss says, "I am very excited to be helping UB develop its rowing program. I've helped start three clubs: the Saugatuck Rowing Club in Westport, RowAmerica Greenwich and RowAmerica Rye, all of which are outstanding programs. We fully intend to have UB's rowing program be one of the best in the country."

UB's Rowing teams will be guided by two accomplished coaches, each bringing a wealth of experience and passion for the sport:

• MJ McNamara, Women's Rowing Head Coach: A standout rower at Fordham University in her undergraduate days and a former member of the U.S. Pre-Elite Rowing Team, McNamara has an extensive coaching background, including leadership roles at Brenau University and King School in Stamford, CT. "I look forward to developing UB's first women's crew team," McNamara said. "This is an exciting opportunity that will not only add a new sport to the University but also raise UB's profile as our boats become a visible presence on the Sound."  
• Luke Auger, Men's Rowing Head Coach: Auger brings a deep understanding of the sport and years of coaching experience to UB. As a four-year varsity rower at Fairfield University, he enjoyed a decorated rowing career that included medaling at the MAAC Championships and Head of the Housatonic. Auger then served as Fairfield University's men's rowing coach, as well as a coach for local youth and club crew teams. This breadth of coaching experience makes him an excellent choice to lead UB's inaugural men's crew. "I can't put words into how excited I am to help bring rowing to UB as the men's head coach," said Auger. "Rowing demands the ultimate in teamwork for success, and I know the student-athletes at UB will rise to the challenge."

Both the men's and women's teams are set to begin competing in the fall of 2025. The Purple Knights will practice on Long Island Sound, a hub for rowing in Fairfield County. The Sound is home to several high school and collegiate teams, and UB's addition to this community represents an exciting step forward for the sport in the region.

For more information about UB's Rowing program or recruitment opportunities, please contact Jim Sheehan, Assistant Athletic Director for Communications, at jsheehan@bridgeport.edu.

To learn more about UB Athletics, visit www.UBKnights.com or follow UB Athletics on Facebook (UBPurpleKnights), X (@UBPurpleKnights), and Instagram (@UBPurpleKnights).

About University of Bridgeport
University of Bridgeport offers career-oriented undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees and programs for people seeking personal and professional growth. The University promotes academic excellence, personal responsibility, and commitment to service. Distinctive curricula in an international, culturally diverse, and supportive learning environment prepare graduates for life and leadership in an increasingly interconnected world. The University is independent and non-sectarian. www.bridgeport.edu

For media inquiries, please contact:
Abby Levandoski
Communications Manager, University of Bridgeport
Email: aleva@bridgeport.edu
Phone: 203-576-4151