The Sacred Heart University rowing team achieved its best result in program history by finishing second at the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Championships on May 19. The event took place on the Cooper River in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey.
This result marks a significant milestone for the Pioneers, who finished in the top three in each of the four races and earned a total of 34 points. Jacksonville won the championship with 42 points, while Fairfield placed third with 29 points. Other teams competing included Marist, Stetson, Drake, and Canisius.
The day began with two Sacred Heart boats racing in the Second Varsity Four (2V4). The “A” boat finished third with a time of 8:36.187, while the “B” boat placed fifth at 8:49.405. Another Sacred Heart crew brought home a second-place finish in the 2V4 event, crossing the line just over two seconds behind Jacksonville.
In other events, Sacred Heart’s Second Varsity Eight (2V8) secured third place with a time of 7:37.598. The team’s strong performance continued in the First Varsity Eight (1V8), where they finished second at 7:14.170—less than nine seconds behind Jacksonville—securing their overall silver medal.
Five Sacred Heart athletes were named to All-MAAC teams following their performances. Sydney Kaiser and Emma Scheibl were selected for the All-MAAC second team, while Cara McDonald, Doria Lukasik-Dres, and Saige Harper earned spots on the first team. McDonald and Harper received first-team honors for a second consecutive season.
The Pioneers’ achievement at this year’s MAAC Championships represents progress for the program and sets a new standard for future competitions.
