A Letter from the President
Dear alumni and supporters,
What a year it has been for Virginia Rowing! Since our last letter, the program has achieved success both on and off the water that will echo for years to come. In February, Coach Frank Biller announced at the State of VRA the creation of the Kevin Sauer Fund for Excellence, securing the program’s legacy for generations. Our goal is to raise an endowment of $5 million by 2030 to fund at least half the operating budget for the future. So far, over $1.7 million has been received in early gifts and pledges by the initiating donors Tim O’Neill (Col ’89) and Dan Snyder (Col ’89). With your support, momentum keeps building. We will announce more on that generational project in November.
The board’s annual survey of the team just before ACRA reflected a united, motivated team. Days later, we saw the fruits of their training and camaraderie with dominant, wire-to-wire wins in both the 1V and 2V at the ACRA National Championship!
The team has been drawing attention for more than just their race results. Journalists and photographers joined them on the water throughout the spring, capturing the team’s culture and determination. Virginia Living highlighted the team as part of the state’s rowing revival, UVA Today featured them for physical and mental toughness, and Rowing News’ July feature story offered a deep look at Frank’s philosophy of being fully present and focusing inward—a lifelong lesson transcending rowing. Positive press is never the aim, but a reflection of the program’s success.
The summer trip to Henley Royal Regatta carried those values abroad to England. A strong showing in the Temple Challenge Cup began with an ACRA rematch against Purdue. The teams remained close, with mutual respect shown in their meetings before and after the race. Next, the Hoos took down a confident Newcastle University before meeting an undefeated Harvard lightweight boat, who went on to win the Temple two days later. The trip fittingly concluded with a team wedding—proof that the relationships formed here extend well beyond the Rivanna.
If ever there was a season that reflected the enduring impact of Virginia Rowing, this was it. The victories reflect a moment in time, but the habits, friendships, and traditions will strengthen both these rowers and this team for decades to come. I could not be prouder to support this team and the generations it inspires. Go Hoos!
Matt Miller (Engr ’11, Darden ’18)
President, Virginia Men’s Rowing
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