March 13, 1998
BERKELEY, CA -After finishing sixth in the varsity eight at the inaugural NCAA Women's Rowing Championships last year, the attitude around the boathouse is upbeat and optimistic.
"Everyone is psyched about the direction we are headed," said interim head coach Marisa Hurtado. "Our accomplishments last season were remarkable considering the limited depth on the squad. We had more novices rowing in the JV than experienced rowers."
This year things look to be much different. The 1998 Golden Bear roster is nearly twice the size of '97's and twice as deep in talent and experience.
"The team has set some challenging goals for itself this season," said Hurtado. "Not only do we have our sights set on returning to the final of the varsity eight event at NCAAs, but also look to qualify for the NCAA team championships by posting top results in JV eight and varsity coxed four competition as well.
The Bears return seven oarswomen from last year's varsity that finished with a No. 6 ranking in the country. Junior co-captains Marlowe Penfold and Jane Watkinson lead this contingent along with senior Caroline Ingham, juniors, Cory Bosworth, Jaime Goodrich, Mercy Ringelmann and sophomore Carey Wagner.
Other returning athletes to watch include seniors Michele Lin and Ashley Seehusen and junior Kathleen Sims, all of whom are coming off redshirt seasons but have experience racing in the Cal varsity eight
"Both Michele and Ashley epitomize dedication and persistence," said Hurtado. "Each is a four-year rower in her last season and is making a strong impact through leadership and work ethic."
Returning from the JV ranks are Marie Haddock, Natalie Nevard, Hannah Volkman and coxswain Carla Pinto. These four juniors are set to challenge once again for a seat in the varsity. Also in the varsity mix are four strong transfer students. Juniors Dana Schreiner (Humboldt State), Shannon Silva (Orange Coast College) and coxswain Kristen Laughridge (Clark College) and sophomore Whitney Webber (Dartmouth) add depth and athleticism to this year's team.
Ten second-year rowers returning from the frosh/novice will all play key roles in this year's success. Robin Dean, Trina Espinoza, Cathy Feher, Lisa Jacobs, Blake Likins, Erin Mulcrone, Julia Nichols, Jessica Ozeri, Elizabeth Powell and Sarah Wallace should all see plenty of racing as the Bears gear up for the Pac-10 Championships and NCAAs.
The novice women's team, led by interim coach Fred Honebein has been training hard and the coaching staff is pleased with the progress the athletes have shown.
"I feel the team is up to the challenge," said Hurtado. "The crews intend on being competitive and capable of racing successfully both regionally and nationally at the highest level. Our demanding regular season schedule is perfect to prepare all the women's crews for the challenges that lie ahead in the "championship" portion of the racing season."
