2 minute read
From The Desk of Men’s Rowing Head Coach Michael Callahan
This year, we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share our sport, team, and values with the world. I couldn’t be more excited. As many of you know, The New York Times bestselling book “The Boys in the Boat” has been adapted into a feature film directed by George Clooney to be released this December.
The story of the 1936 Washington crew team is universal and specific to Washington. It’s the story of an underdog crew that overcomes all odds to beat their Ivy League peers before going on to the Olympics and earning a gold medal against the Germans (and everyone else.) This is a story of grit, humility and perseverance.
They left us an incredible legacy to honor. As a coach, I look to the progenitor of Washington rowing values, the 1936 Head Coach Al Ulbrickson, for direction. He showed us that the most successful teams are ones that row for each other. He was quiet, unassuming and extremely competitive. Too often today, leaders can feel pressure to focus on personal branding or charisma. Not Al Ulbrickson, it was never about him.
Today, we use four pillars to articulate the values of Washington Rowing: 1) We do the work; 2) We row to win; 3) Brother and sisterhood; and 4) Team before self. I am incredibly proud of the current team we have today. Young men and women come from around the world to be a part of Washington Rowing because they know we have something special. While I strive to ensure that our team embodies quintessential Northwest values, I am repeatedly in awe of how our message and mission resonates globally. Washington Rowing continues to put in the work everyday and we are looking forward to welcoming you to the Montlake Cut this spring to watch us race. Today’s Washington crew strives to honor their legacy today and understands the unique opportunity. The 1936 crew has gifted us this spotlight. Now it is up to us to use it. We hope you’ll join us.
