Ohio State rowing didn't need to look far for its next head coach.
On Tuesday, Ohio State senior deputy athletic director Janine Oman announced veteran assistant Emily Gackowski will be the program's newest leader. Gackowski agreed to a five-year contract with the Buckeyes that will continue through the 2029 season.
Introducing our new head coach, Emily Gackowski#GoBucks | https://t.co/2UQO8KoglX pic.twitter.com/jQVAYjwfEA
— Ohio State Rowing (@OhioStateWROW) June 25, 2024
“We’re thrilled to promote Emily Gackowski to lead our rowing program,” Oman said in a statement. “She’s earned this opportunity, not only through the good work she’s done as assistant coach and the personal connections she’s made with our student-athletes and staff, but also because of her long-range vision for the program.”
Gackowski arrived at Ohio State as a volunteer coach in 2018. For the past five seasons, she was a full-time assistant under Kate Sweeney. During her tenure as an assistant, Gackowski acted as the Buckeyes' novice coach, helping lead Ohio State to a Big Ten championship and NCAA Championship appearances in each season the event was held (the NCAA Championships were canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic).
After Sweeney resigned in May, Gackowski interviewed for the position, impressing Oman and soon-to-be Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork.
“I am very excited for Ohio State rowing,” Bjork said. “Emily has a wonderful spirit for Ohio State University and this program, and the future is bright under her leadership.”
Gackowski plans to reward Oman and Bjork for their vote of confidence.
“I’m honored and humbled by the chance to lead the Ohio State rowing program,” she said. “I’m appreciative to Janine Oman and Ross Bjork for their belief in me and I am looking forward to the opportunity to build upon the legacy of success this program is known for both academically and athletically."
