Kumari Lewis Takes the Helm as Head Coach for Alabama Women’s Rowing
Exciting New Chapter in Women’s Rowing
PHILADELPHIA – In an exhilarating turn of events, Kumari Lewis, previously the associate head coach and recruiting coordinator for the University of Pennsylvania’s women’s rowing team, has been appointed as the new head coach at the University of Alabama. This marks the beginning of a thrilling new journey for both Lewis and the Alabama rowing program.
A Journey of Growth at Penn
Over the past eight years, Lewis played a pivotal role at Penn, first as an assistant coach before ascending to associate head coach and recruiting coordinator ahead of the 2023-24 season. Her tenure has been nothing short of transformative, leading the Quakers to achieve unprecedented success on the national stage.
"I could not be more grateful to the Penn community," Lewis shared. "These last eight years have shaped who I am as a person and coach. It’s bittersweet to leave, but I’m excited for this next adventure in Tuscaloosa. That said, PWC will always hold a piece of my heart."
Elevating Penn Women’s Rowing
Lewis’s contributions to Penn’s rowing program cannot be understated. Under her guidance, the Quakers made their first four full-team appearances at the NCAA Championships, a remarkable achievement considering their previous appearances were limited.
- 2022: Tied for 11th place with SMU
- 2023: Rose to 6th overall, with the Varsity Eight finishing 4th
- 2024: Secured 10th place, marking another history-making season with all boats achieving top-12 finishes
Lewis was instrumental in setting a new benchmark for success, leading to five Ivy League Championship medals for NCAA boats during her tenure—three from the Varsity Eight and two from the Second Varsity Eight.
Praise from Peers
Bill Manning, Penn’s head coach, expressed his enthusiasm about Lewis’s new role:
"What a great hire for Alabama. Kumari has helped elevate Penn Women’s Rowing to a consistent NCAA Championships competitor. It’s hard to overstate her contributions in recent years."
Manning continued, emphasizing Lewis’s deep commitment to her athletes’ welfare and her relentless pursuit of competitive success.
A Legacy of Achievements
Lewis’s accomplishments extend beyond the NCAA. Along with her coaching team, she was named the Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association (CRCA) Region I Staff of the Year after the 2023 spring season. Notably, her coaching staff led the Quakers to participate in notable events such as the Henley Women’s Regatta and the Henley Royal Regatta, where the Varsity Eight made an impressive run to the Island Challenge Cup final.
Looking Ahead
As Kumari Lewis embarks on this exciting new chapter in Tuscaloosa, the Alabama rowing community eagerly anticipates the fresh energy and expertise she will bring. With a proven track record of success and an unwavering dedication to her athletes, Alabama is poised for a new era in women’s rowing.
For the latest updates and insights on Penn women’s rowing, be sure to follow @PennWomensRowing on Instagram and visit PennAthletics.com.
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