CAMBRIDGE, Mass. – The Sacred Heart University lightweight rowing team had its first official race as a program at the prestigious Head of the Charles Regatta on Sunday.

Racing in the women's lightweight eight event, the Pioneers placed eighth overall in their debut performance, showing promise and grit against an elite field. From stroke to bow, the lineup featured Julia Walker, Yelanni Diaz, Olivia Nguyen, Emily Jenkins, Trinity Savage, Julia Campbell, Anais Friedrich, and Elsa Friedrich.

Head coach Lucas Wilhelm praised his crew's effort and composure. "It was the first official race for the lightweight program and they did a great job learning and growing from racing in this new league," Wilhelm said. "Can't wait till spring to see them on the race course again."

Assistant coach Dawson Shyne-Appignani echoed those sentiments, highlighting the team's courage and competitive spirit. "These women were the standard bearers for our new program, and they showed how fearless this team will race no matter who lines up next to them," Shyne said. "Couldn't be more proud of them!"

Coxswain Ava Del Greco reflected on the milestone moment with pride and optimism. "This is only the beginning for our program, and our response will set the tone for what our program will be," Del Greco said. "We are going to carry this same energy into our training and build, that's who we are."

The race marks an exciting beginning for Sacred Heart's lightweight rowing program, setting the foundation for continued growth as the Pioneers look ahead to their inaugural spring season.