Drexel University Athletics
Men’s Rowing Nominated for IRCA DI Coaching Staff of the Year
6/22/2026 3:43:00 PM | Men's Rowing
Quinn Cooney Named Finalist for Comeback Athlete of the Year
PHILADELPHIA — Drexel men's rowing was named one of three finalists for the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRCA) Coaching Staff of the Year on Monday. Quinn Cooney was also nominated for Comeback Athlete of the Year.
In his third season at the helm, head coach Matt Weaver, alongside assistant coach Gary Wielgus, guided Drexel to both the men's points title and the overall team championship at the Dad Vail Regatta. The victory marks the program's fifth consecutive men's title and third straight overall crown. The Varsity 8+ defeated defending champion Temple to capture gold and earn an automatic berth to the IRA National Championships. Drexel finished the regatta with five gold medals, the most in program history.
The Dragons reached as high as 16th in the IRCA Coaches Poll, earning victories over several ranked opponents in dual action, including Navy, Georgetown, Holy Cross and Columbia. At the IRA National Championships, both the 2V8+ and 3V8+ advanced to the third final as the program placed 17th in the overall national points standings.
Cooney was a member of the 2nd Varsity 8+ boat who took gold at the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta. The award is given to an athlete who has shown significant improvement with their perseverance, determination and dedication. The Senior rowed with the Varsity 8+ at the IRA National Championships after missing most of last season with a back injury.
Award winners will be announced on Friday, June 26.
In his third season at the helm, head coach Matt Weaver, alongside assistant coach Gary Wielgus, guided Drexel to both the men's points title and the overall team championship at the Dad Vail Regatta. The victory marks the program's fifth consecutive men's title and third straight overall crown. The Varsity 8+ defeated defending champion Temple to capture gold and earn an automatic berth to the IRA National Championships. Drexel finished the regatta with five gold medals, the most in program history.
The Dragons reached as high as 16th in the IRCA Coaches Poll, earning victories over several ranked opponents in dual action, including Navy, Georgetown, Holy Cross and Columbia. At the IRA National Championships, both the 2V8+ and 3V8+ advanced to the third final as the program placed 17th in the overall national points standings.
Cooney was a member of the 2nd Varsity 8+ boat who took gold at the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta. The award is given to an athlete who has shown significant improvement with their perseverance, determination and dedication. The Senior rowed with the Varsity 8+ at the IRA National Championships after missing most of last season with a back injury.
Award winners will be announced on Friday, June 26.
Players Mentioned
/ Men's Rowing
Tuesday, March 18
Wednesday, March 05
Friday, March 01
Tuesday, February 06