U.S. Rowing Team Seeks Redemption with Renewed Spirit Ahead of Paris and L.A. Olympics

In the wake of a disheartening performance at the Tokyo Olympics, where the U.S. rowing team failed to secure a single medal for the first time in 108 years, the focus has shifted to reclaiming their status on the global stage as they prepare for the Paris Games and the subsequent Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. The Tokyo Games were particularly tough for the women's eight team, once a dominant force in the sport, which returned home empty-handed, prompting a period of reflection and rebuilding. In contrast, the current competition in Vaires-sur-Marne, France, has shown signs of progress for Team USA, which captured a bronze medal in the men’s eight and a gold in the men’s four. While these achievements mark an improvement, USRowing’s high-performance chief, Josy Verdonkschot, emphasizes that more is needed. "We could have done better," he stated, reflecting on the team's aspirations for two to four medals as they eye the future. The path to redemption is not solely in the hands of coaches and administrators; the athletes themselves are integral to fostering a culture of support and resilience. Jessica Thoennes, a member of the women's pairs, shared how the team has come together post-Tokyo to create an environment where mutual support is prioritized. This ethos of kindness and encouragement has become a cornerstone of their approach, echoing the sentiment that success in rowing—much like in life—is cultivated through collective effort. In the wake of their experiences, seasoned rowers like Meghan Musnicki have noted the increasingly competitive landscape in women’s sports, while younger athletes such as Clark Dean, who is part of the men’s eight, highlighted their rigorous training regime, significantly intensified after the disappointment of Tokyo. This desire to push boundaries and improve is a hallmark of the current squad, which has embraced the challenges head-on. As Verdonkschot strategizes long-term improvements, he faces the complexities of the American athletic landscape. The vastness of the country presents challenges in uniting athletes under a cohesive training program. The collegiate system, while a robust pipeline for talent, can complicate training schedules and athlete availability. His vision includes establishing a clear set of standards and identifying high-altitude training locations to elevate performance. Crucially, Verdonkschot's mission includes retaining the interest and participation of rowers for the next Olympic cycle, even as they balance careers and training. With the rise of remote work following the pandemic, there’s a shift in how athletes can navigate their dual commitments. The recent medal wins are a significant boost to morale and serve as a persuasive argument for young talents to continue competing. Looking ahead, there is an unmistakable sense of optimism among the athletes who envision a triumphant homecoming performance in Los Angeles. As Nick Rusher, a member of the men’s eight, articulated, “We can win a lot of gold medals in L.A. on home soil.” The dedication, camaraderie, and relentless pursuit of greatness are being revitalized within the team, marking the beginning of what they hope will be a golden era for U.S. rowing. The clock is ticking, and with it comes a renewed sense of purpose among athletes and management alike as they set their sights firmly on the horizon of 2028.