DAYTON, Ohio - The University of Dayton women's rowing team held its Alumnae Event this past weekend. More than 40 UD rowing alums came back to campus to reconnect with former teammates and to meet the current Flyer rowers and coaches. 

"It was great to see so many alums come back and support the team," said UD Head Coach Mike Wenker. "As a coach, it is good to see the alumni at  the boathouse and meet the team.  The team caught up with their former teammates and the novice got to meet the alumni from year's past."

Former UD rower Erin Quinn, class of 2012, was among the returning alums. 

"Many thanks to coaches Mike and Brittany for hosting the races, providing lunch, and welcoming us home," she said. "Alumni weekend is a great example of the rowing program's strong tradition of being a supportive, relational community that challenges and cares for its members.

After UD's practice,  the alumni raced in one minute sprints.  

"As an alum, there is no greater joy than stepping back in the boats that were so central to our rowing experience with our former teammates to compete with the current team in some lighthearted racing," said Quinn. "From our time as student-athletes we remember the value of having the legends from the team narratives all descend on the boathouse, introduce themselves, recognize their stories in our own, and encourage us that putting in the work pays off so significantly."

Kristin Dormish, class of 2011, was also at the alumnae weekend.

"It felt great to get back in the coxswain's seat again and it felt even better to know that we are still competitive and can move a boat! I've found the type of women the team attracts hasn't changed much, and is carried through the current members," said Dormish. "This team, past and present, likes to win, likes to have fun, and likes to be a part of this family that we have chosen for ourselves. It was incredible to meet some names I recognized from record boards, and to meet the new girls that will build on the hard work of the past team members.

"As it's been since I joined the team, this weekend we were never quite sure if we were more sore from practice or from laughing so hard. It felt good to be home," added Dormish. "I'm looking forward to see what the team accomplishes this year and in the years to come. Get Big, Go UD!"

Wenker said he already has plans to hold an alumnae event next year as well.

"I look forward to meeting the new rowers every fall and love reconnecting with them as they move through the years of their rowing experience," said Quinn. "I can't wait to watch some great racing from them this season. Go UD!"