Pilot Eposide “The IRA Rowing Insiders”

In this episode, Josy Verdonkschot shares his thoughts on the 205 Henley Royal Regatta, highlighting standout performances from NYAC’s Collins and Wanamaker and offering praise for rising talent Fin Hammill. He reflects on the USA  team’s current form following recent World Cup Regattas and racing, he previews key takeaways from standout performances in the men’s single, men’s quad, women’s four, and eight. Josy discusses expectations heading into Selection Camp 2, the integration of lightweights into the open squad, and early impressions of the mixed eight. He also touches on the beach sprints as the sport expands .

Kim Cupini – Tennessee Rowing   In this episode, Kim Cupini, head coach of Tennessee Women’s Rowing, talks with Sean about the team’s steady climb up the rankings and what it’s taken to stay competitive. She reflects on how the rowing landscape has changed, how her squad has handled rising expectations, and the pressure of being in the spotlight.   Cupini highlights the strength of the varsity eight and how that performance is driving higher standards across the team. She shares insights into Tennessee’s team culture, the unique challenges and advantages of coaching in the SEC, and gives props to top programs like Texas and Yale.   She also discusses what’s next for Tennessee and names the SEC school she’d love to see go all-in on women’s rowing. A sharp, honest look at a program on the rise.

Texas  Rowing Coach Dave O’Neill In this episode, we sit down with Texas Rowing Coach Dave O’Neill, fresh off leading the Longhorns to the 2024 NCAA Championship title. We kick things off by getting an update on the Texas program and what’s next for the team as they build on their national success. We then dive into the biggest topic in collegiate rowing right now: the new NCAA scholarship regulations. With the shift to 68 scholarships in rowing, what does this mean for Texas and other Power 4 schools? Does this widen the gap between well-funded programs and smaller schools? And how will these changes affect the Ivy League, given their unique recruiting and financial aid structure? We also explore the NCAA boat classes,  should there be a sculling component, such as a quad (4x) or double (2x), added to the championship format? Looking beyond the collegiate scene, we discuss the Longhorns’ presence at the 2024 Olympics. Finally, we examine the relationship between USRowing and the college system. What can each do to better support the other in developing the next generation of elite rowers? To wrap things up, we get Coach O’Neill’s take on the current landscape of collegiate rowing. With rowingwolf ( Sean ) having a vote in the JRN polls, how should the top five teams shake out in both the men’s and women’s rankings?   Tune in for an insightful conversation with one of the top coaches in the sport as we break down the latest in NCAA rowing and beyond.

 Reflections & Road to LA 2028 In this episode we break down the performances celebrating medals in the men’s eight and four while asking whether a win in the eight was within reach.  We discuss the focus for this Olympic cycle, including stroke selection and athlete development.  We also address lingering questions about Mike Teti and Tom Terhaar’s involvement, highlight new faces on the squad, and explore the future of the lightweights developing on the open squad. Other key topics include notable absences this year, Clark Dean in the single, and the impact of embedded scientists in high-performance rowing. On the women’s, we analyze whether anything went wrong at the Olympics. We also discuss coaching contracts, the importance of the March Speed Order, and long-term goals for LA 2028. A must-listen for anyone invested in the future of U.S. rowing!

With 25 days until the start of the Olympics, US Rowing High Performance Director Josy Verdonkschot discusses the team's progress, the Olympic squad's coaches', perspectives on qualifying crews, challenges faced at the World Cup, Beach Sprints , developmental crews racing at HRR, potential medal counts, and thoughts on preparing for 2028. 

Announcing the pilot episode of "The IRA Rowing Insiders," hosted by Whitney Powell, with commentary by Steve Perry and Sean Wolf. Starting next week, the show will transition to a video format and is proudly sponsored and produced by the IRA. Open men , Lightweight Men & Women and DIII Tune in every Thursday at 7:00 pm Eastern time, from "catch" to finish.

In the latest episode of the podcast, NU Head Coach Alex Perkins and Sean dive into the current state of the Northeastern mens rowing program.  We discuss last year's performance and what's in store for this spring, including the anticipated showdown between the huskies of NU and UW   There's also talk about the recent change in the training schedule and rumors circulating about this being one of the fastest groups of athletes in NU history.  We take a moment to reflect on Alex’s  journey from UW to BU, to serving as an assistant at NU, and eventually stepping up as the interim head coach. It's been quite the journey! We touch on his passion for fishing versus coaching and share insights into the upcoming Sprints league and this year's schedule, including the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta. We delve into the intricacies of recruiting, both abroad and stateside, and explore the format of the Sunshine Invite. Overall, it's an engaging episode packed with reflections, insights, and excitement for the future of the program.          

Gabe Winkler and Sean dive deep into the world of men’s collegiate rowing with recent results from The Las Vegas Invite” ,  dissecting the latest developments in the Pac-12, to the “Western Sprints”. Intense rivalries between Cal, UW, and Stanford to the impact on athletes and squads, we explore it all. Hear about Gabe’s national team's glory days, Teti's training methods, and the mantra of 'you don't talk, you just do.' Plus, we delve into boat speed, program standings, and the rich history of lightweight and sweep rowing. Tune in for insights on last year, this spring, and predictions for the future of OSU, Olympic sports, tequila and more               

In this podcast episode with Justin Best, Silver Medalist Mens 4- We reflect on the past year, including thoughts on medaling, qualifying the four, and the shape of the team heading into 2024. Insights into the process of being selected for the 4- and the challenges of being in and out of the boat throughout last year. We analyze the race itself, coming just about 2 seconds short of GB in the final.  The podcast covers the upcoming Winter Speed Order in February, it importance.  The roles of coaches Teti, Casey, Jesse, Josy, and the benefits each brings to the team.  High altitude camps, team dynamics, erg testing are explored, along with insights into the Peach system with Casey Galvanek. The episode continues with a glimpse into work life leading up to the games, the significance of earlier selections, and retaining athletes from cycle to cycle. Life after the games is considered, and we share the excitement of boat naming. The discussion concludes with a spotlight on Drexel and the upcoming spring collegiate racing season….oh and the Eagles and the conclusion of the NFL season 

Join silver medalist Michelle Sechser and I in an engaging podcast episode as she delves into the world of rowing, sharing insights from her training journey with coaches like Josy and Casey Galvanek.  Michelle brings transparency to the discussion, exploring thoughts on Worlds, The Charles, Fall Speed Orders, camps, and the unique bond among lightweight and open women athletes. Discover the financial landscape and the commitment from US Rowing to the lightweight women's 2x. Michelle opens up about her rowing influences and the "GB rivalry," shedding light on efforts to close the gap and GB Crew's recognition as Crew of the Year by World Rowing. Learn about Amanda's leadership and Josy's program, as well as the meticulous monitoring of training, recovery, and performance. As the last dance for the lightweights approaches, Michelle discusses rowing for Tulsa, eyeing the next level, and the journey beyond. Uncover Michelle's sports loyalties, coaching aspirations, and the future of lightweight rowing, including potential pivots to beach sprint and more.  The conversation extends beyond racing results, exploring life after the Olympics, both professionally and personally. Michelle shares her hopes and aspirations for the upcoming Olympic Games, offering a glimpse into the multifaceted world of an elite athlete with a passion for rowing.