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University of Dayton Athletics

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Gavin Smiley

Began at Dayton: November 2025

Job Responsibilities: Practice Planning & Coaching

Assist the Head Coach in planning, organizing, and executing daily on-water and land (erg) practices.

Provide technical instruction for novice and varsity rowers in rowing technique, race strategy, and conditioning.

Use performance tools (video review, telemetry, data analysis) to evaluate technique and guide improvements.

Teach sweep and sculling skills as needed for program development.

Support student-athletes’ academic, social, and personal development alongside their athletic growth.

Provide guidance, motivation, and leadership development to promote individual and team success.

Foster a positive, inclusive, and accountable team culture.


Assist with rigging, de-rigging, and basic maintenance of boats.

Maintain and manage rowing equipment such as shells, oars, and ergometers.

Assist in identifying, contacting, and recruiting prospective student-athletes.

Maintain recruiting databases and evaluate both athletic potential and academic readiness.


Help plan and coordinate regatta logistics, including travel arrangements and equipment transport.

Travel with the team to competitions and support race-day operations.

Assist with lineup decisions, race tactics, warm-ups, and other competitive strategy elements.

Support budget tracking, gear procurement, and equipment ordering processes.

Assist with boathouse operations, including general facility upkeep and coordination of equipment repairs.

Collaborate with academic advisors, performance staff, sports medicine, and other departments to support athletes holistically.

Participate in fundraising events, alumni engagement, and community outreach initiatives


Past Experience: Former Head Coach at Dayton Boat Club (Masters program)

Rowed with Halifax Rowing Association, Treasure Coast Rowing Team, Intrepid Rowing, and Hilton Head Island Rowing Club

Former Division I rower at Stetson University

Attended and coached at numerous regional regattas with consistent athlete success

Implemented iCrew operations at Dayton Boat Club

Experience hosting home scrimmages and supporting local rowing community events

Over a decade of competitive experience in rowing

USRowing Level 2, Para-Rowing, and Equipment Management certifications


Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Stetson University, with minors in Economics and Sports Business