Winning Weekend for CK Athletes in National Competitions!

Will Van Houten ’18 participated in the National Scholastic Rowing Association of America Championships, which took place in Camden, New Jersey over Memorial Weekend. The championship included nearly 200 schools from across the nation, all of which had boats which qualified for the national competition at their regional championships.

Having earned CK’s first-ever gold medal at the Midwest Scholastic Rowing Association Championships in Ohio, Van Houten proceeded to win the single at the State Championship Regatta in Grand Rapids, MI. These victories qualified him to compete at the national level, rowing against the best high school athletes in the nation.

At the end of the event, Van Houten had advanced through the heats, semifinals, and into the finals, coming to a victorious finish in 6th place overall. This accomplishment is a tremendous compliment to Van Houten’s skills, as he is now the 6th best rower in the nation; as well as the CK Rowing program, which is proud to have its students competing at the national level.

Head Rowing Coach Michael German remarked on Van Houten’s achievements, stating “We are incredibly proud of Will’s accomplishments. His hard work as a four-year rower and team captain really paid off this year. He spent extra time in the weight room this winter and he led workouts for his teammates as well. He’s a great representative of our rowing program and our school.”

This spirit of success extends to CK’s alumni, as two former CK athletes have also earned accolades on the national level. Taylor Ghesquiere ’14 of the Wesleyan Men’s Lacrosse Team participated and won in the District III Men’s National Championship. Similarly, Matthew Giampetroni ’14 of the Men’s Lacrosse Team at Duke was awarded the District I Men’s National Runner-Up.

Many congratulations to these athletes for their incredible successes, and best of luck in all of their future endeavors! Go Cranes!