Our Crowdfunding Groups
The MSOE Men’s Rowing program started in 2007 because of the selfless donations of an anonymous donor and a unique collaboration between MSOE and the Milwaukee Rowing Club. In fall of 2016, six women and their male coxswain began a women’s club team. Both teams became successful quickly. The women rose to Varsity status in 2019 with the assistance of philanthropic support.
Most of our rowers have never picked up an oar before starting school at MSOE. This program gives students the opportunity to be involved in athletics and become part of a passionate group of people that build lasting relationships. Our students are 100% committed to the program and that is showcased at every practice and competition.
“Rowing taught me to be confident in myself, push myself to my limit (Where I thought my limit was) and push that farther. I have been able to take that into my life outside of rowing as far as academics and also my professional career, it’s taught me to be very confident in myself but also know that I always have something to learn.” -Cypress Borgialli ‘21
Rowers are responsible for packing, loading, and transporting all their own equipment as well as unloading and re rigging at the end of the competition. The Varsity Rowers practice daily from 5:00am to 7:30am from August through May while the Freshman/Novice Rowers practice daily from 6:30pm to 8:30pm from the beginning of school through May.
In addition to the rigors of training and competition, the team has partnered with the Milwaukee Rowing Club to offer opportunities to middle school children from the central city through the STEM to Stern program. STEM to Stern offers swimming lessons, transportation, rowing lessons and STEM tutoring.
Once a member graduates they continue to stay connected with the team. The Rowing Alumni have established an Alumni Board which assists the team with volunteering, job and internship opportunities, Alumni/ team social events and fundraising.
“Rowing is a great sport because it encourages everyone on the team to give their absolute best and it creates a sense of camaraderie. Rowing has also taught me a lot about discipline. The harder you work, the better results you will see, which is a lesson that can be applied anywhere.” - Gunnar Wilhelm ‘17
While we have some wonderful donors and have been very successful in fundraising - travel and equipment are very expensive. MSOE Rowing is looking to raise funds that will be used to continue to grow the program by providing our students access to the best equipment available and travel opportunities to competitions around the nation. The rowing experience positively affects all the people involved with the program and serves the Milwaukee community. We want to continue to offer this opportunity with the same quality and professionalism that makes it so successful. Thank you for making an impact on our students experience.
