Texas Rowing Shines with SEC Awards Dominance
AUSTIN, Texas – In a spectacular display of talent and teamwork, No. 2 Texas Rowing swept the 2025 SEC Rowing Awards, solidifying its position as a powerhouse in collegiate rowing. This year’s awards ceremony brought thrilling recognition as head coach Dave O’Neill was honored as Co-SEC Coach of the Year, junior Marg Van der Wal earned SEC Rower of the Year, and freshman Imy Grey took home the title of SEC Freshman of the Year. Adding to the impressive accolades, every member of Texas’ First Varsity Eight was named to the All-SEC team.
Championship Highlights: A Triumph for Texas Rowing
The First Eight crew, featuring standout athletes like Amy Werner (Cox), Sue Holderness, and several others, showcased exceptional skill throughout the season. Each athlete brought their unique strengths to the boat, culminating in a historic performance at the SEC Rowing Championship on May 11 in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.
Under O’Neill’s guidance, the Longhorns clinched their 10th consecutive conference title, marking a monumental achievement. Texas defeated formidable opponents, including No. 4 Tennessee, No. 24 Oklahoma, and Alabama, winning three of six races and securing impressive top two finishes in all events. This victory not only awarded Texas the first-ever SEC Rowing Championship but also added another crown to their growing legacy, bringing the total to 14 overall conference titles.
Stellar Performances: Individual Accolades
Marg Van der Wal’s season has been nothing short of astonishing. Rowing from the six-seat, she became the 11th Longhorn to be named conference rower of the year. Her accolades further include being recognized as the SEC’s Scholar-Athlete of the Year for rowing and earning SEC Rower of the Week honors earlier in April. Notably, she and Imy Grey played pivotal roles in leading the First Varsity Eight to an exhilarating come-from-behind victory, finishing with a time of 6:12.420—edging past Tennessee in the final stretch.
On the other hand, Imy Grey, hailing from Sydney, Australia, marked a significant milestone as the seventh Longhorn to be named Freshman of the Year. With her strategic prowess from the seven-seat at the SEC Championship, she contributed immensely to the team’s success. This year marks the first time since 2019 that Texas has had two freshmen in the First Eight, highlighting the bright future of Texas Rowing.
Looking Ahead: Aiming for National Glory
With the excitement of conference achievements behind them, the Longhorns are now gearing up for the 2025 NCAA Championships scheduled for May 30-June 1 at Mercer Lake, West Windsor, New Jersey. The team is eager to chase its fourth national title in five years, following their triumph in 2024.
Texas Rowing Honors Through the Years
For more context on individual and team achievements, here’s a brief look at some notable titles held by Texas rowers:
Conference Rower of the Year:
- 2025 – Marg Van der Wal (SEC)
- 2024 – Anna Jensen (Big 12)
Coach of the Year:
- 2025 – Dave O’Neill (SEC)
- 2024 – Dave O’Neill (Big 12)
- Freshman of the Year:
- 2025 – Imy Grey (SEC)
- 2024 – Rhiannon Luke (Big 12)
For more detailed coverage, check the SEC Awards Announcement.
Final Thoughts
The achievements of Texas Rowing this season not only highlight the exceptional talent and hard work of the athletes but also underscore the strategic vision of Coach O’Neill. As the Longhorns prepare for the upcoming national championship, the excitement is palpable, and fans eagerly await the next chapter in this remarkable journey.
