Eastern Michigan University’s rowing program is gearing up for a significant transition as it joins the Mid-American Conference (MAC) starting in the 2025-26 academic year. This move marks EMU's return to a more regional competition base after nearly a decade with the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA). The change will bring opportunities and challenges as the team adjusts to a new conference landscape.
A Homecoming to the Midwest
"The MAC has always prided itself on maintaining a local footprint, and this transition brings us back to the Midwest, reducing the need for extensive travel," said Head Coach Kemp Savage.
He emphasized that returning to a regional conference will not only ease the physical toll on the athletes—who previously faced long bus rides across the East Coast—but also allow the team to train more effectively without the disruptions caused by extensive travel.
Savage expressed gratitude for the time spent in the CAA, describing the experience as amazing and praising the conference for being excellent hosts. However, he highlighted the benefits of the move to the MAC, particularly in reducing travel time and the associated impact on the team's academic schedule and physical well-being.
Preparing for the MAC Championships
Eastern Michigan will host the MAC Rowing Championships for the first three years at Lakeside Park on Ford Lake, beginning in 2026. Coach Savage is confident in the team's preparations, noting they will have ample time to practice hosting events.
"We have a really good plan to build out the event with a couple of invites and home races this year," he explained.
He added that partnerships with the Ypsilanti Sports Commission and local businesses have been crucial in setting up the necessary infrastructure.
Having the proper infrastructure in place will allow the team to focus on the logistics of the events, making the process "plug and play" rather than a scramble to assemble temporary solutions. Savage sees this as a significant advantage, allowing the team to concentrate on refining their performance and building a solid reputation within the new conference.
Recruitment and Team Development
Recruitment will be crucial as the team prepares for its first MAC season. Coach Savage highlighted the need for athletes who are physically strong and driven to succeed. "We’re not just looking for tall or strong; we’re looking for people who are really driven to win," he said, emphasizing that success in rowing is not confined to a specific body type or skill set. "Some of our best athletes have been five foot two and just driven."
The team will be holding open tryouts from September 6-20, welcoming all full-time female EMU students to participate, regardless of prior experience. Prospective rowers are encouraged to attend one of three informational meetings scheduled for August 26-28 at 7 p.m. in the Student Center, Room 350.
Community Impact and Long-Term Goals
The move to the MAC also has broader implications for the local community. Savage believes the championships will help put Ypsilanti and Ford Lake on the national rowing map, attracting more attention to the area and boosting local pride.
"It’s huge to show off Ypsilanti, Eastern Michigan, and Southeast Michigan," he noted.
In addition to the economic impact, the rowing program has a strong tradition of community service. The team regularly participates in local events, including hosting the Special Olympics of Michigan’s kayaking tournament. Looking ahead, the program plans to collaborate with local schools to introduce students to rowing and STEM education through the STEM to Stern program, further strengthening ties with the community.
Looking Forward
As Eastern Michigan Rowing enters this new phase in the MAC, the team’s goals are clear: to establish itself as a top contender in the conference and to leverage the advantages of racing on home turf.
"We want to be in the top three every year," said Savage, expressing confidence that the university's and local fans' support will provide a competitive edge.
With a solid plan and a commitment to excellence, EMU Rowing is poised to impact the MAC on and off the water significantly. Those interested in joining the team or learning more about the program can visit the EMU Rowing website or contact Assistant Coach Delaney McGuire at mccgui11@emich.edu.
