Texas Rowing Wins 4th NCAA Title in Six Years

Texas rowing just joined an elite club that only one other university has ever entered.

The Longhorns captured their fourth NCAA Championship in six years on Sunday at Lake Lanier Olympic Park in Georgia, matching their program record with 130 points. Only Brown University has previously accomplished this feat, winning four titles between 1999 and 2004.

The victory was powered by spectacular performances across the board. The First Varsity Eight shattered expectations with an unofficial world record time of 5:47.706, finishing more than two seconds ahead of second place Stanford. The team's dominance was so complete that they clinched the overall championship with that single race.

Texas also captured gold in the First Four event with a time of 6:35.728, nearly six seconds faster than Tennessee in second place. The Second Eight added a silver medal finish, contributing crucial points to the championship total.

Head coach Dave O'Neill has now led the program to all four of these titles in 2021, 2022, 2024, and 2026. His leadership has transformed Texas into a rowing powerhouse that consistently performs when it matters most.

The win moves Texas into a tie for third place in all-time NCAA rowing championships with four titles, matching California and trailing only Brown with seven and Washington with five. The Longhorns have now finished in the top four at nine consecutive national championships.

The Ripple Effect

This championship represents the second NCAA team title for the University of Texas during the 2025-26 academic year, following the men's swimming and diving victory in March. The athletic department has now won 15 NCAA team titles across eight different programs over the last six years, demonstrating excellence that extends far beyond any single sport.

The success sends a powerful message to young rowers across the country about what's possible with dedication and strong coaching. Texas has created a culture of championship excellence that attracts top talent and develops them into record-breaking athletes.

For the student athletes on this team, many of whom balance rigorous academic schedules with demanding training regimens, this victory validates years of early morning practices and personal sacrifices. Rowers like Marg Van der Wal, recently named SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year, prove that academic and athletic excellence can go hand in hand.

The championship also showcases the strength of women's collegiate athletics at a time when investment and visibility in women's sports continues to grow. These athletes are writing their own history and inspiring the next generation.

Texas rowing has proven that sustained excellence isn't just possible but achievable with the right combination of talent, coaching, and commitment.