WINTER PARK, Fla. – Following a Sunshine State Conference Championship regatta title, the Rollins rowing program saw five Tars recognized in the league's annual postseason awards, highlighted by Head Coach
Brandon Thompson earning Sunshine State Conference Coach of the Year honors for the second consecutive season.
Four Tars were named to the All-SSC Team, including
Sophie Bolan,
Abby Klesa,
Teagan Hanley, and coxswain
Claire Opal-Levine. Hanley also earned a spot on the SSC All-Freshman/Novice Team.
Thompson becomes just the second coach in program history to earn multiple SSC Coach of the Year honors, joining former head coach and current Director of Rowing
Shawn Pistor. The recognition comes after the Tars captured the 2026 SSC Championship while remaining ranked inside the top seven of the CRCA National Poll throughout the season. Rollins totaled 20 points at the SSC Championship Regatta, highlighted by runner-up finishes in both the Varsity Four and Varsity Eight races.
Bolan, Klesa, Hanley, and Opal-Levine each played key roles in Rollins' championship campaign throughout the spring season. Hanley's selection to both the All-SSC and SSC All-Freshman/Novice teams further validated her preseason recognition as a CRCA Athlete to Watch, capping an impressive debut collegiate campaign.
The Tars wrapped up one of the strongest seasons in program history, claiming conference gold and continuing to garner national recognition throughout the year.
Rollins will now turn their attention towards the NCAA DII Rowing Championship on May 29-30 in Gainesville, GA.
For the latest news, updates, and results, visit
RollinsSports.com.
