West Windsor Township, N.J. – Cal Poly Humboldt Rowing concluded an unforgettable season on Saturday at the NCAA Division II Rowing Championships, capturing the Varsity 4+ national title and finishing as the national runner-up in the overall team standings. 

Despite delays, gusty winds, and choppy waters creating a day of unpredictable racing conditions on Lake Mercer in New Jersey, the Lumberjacks powered through to earn 24 team points, just two shy of champion Embry-Riddle, who clinched their first-ever NCAA team title with 26 points.

"It was a terrific weekend of racing," stated Head Coach Matt Weise. "The four finished its undefeated season with their best time and the championship. They have been consistent racers the entire spring and I was proud of them for keeping their heads and finding their best in their final race. The eight also had a great weekend with personal best times and an incredibly close race in the final. The water conditions were very challenging in their race but they still found a way to perform and keep the race tight. It has been a joy to coach this team both on and off the water."

Team Standings – NCAA Division II Rowing Championships

Ties broken by higher finish in Varsity 8+.

NCAA Championship Scoring Format – 2025

Historic Perfection in the Varsity 4+

The Varsity 4+ capped off a flawless season, remaining undefeated against all Division II opponents and claiming the national title for the fourth time in program history (2004, 2012, 2023, 2025). The crew of Adelaide Toll (stroke), Elsie Stevens (3), River Walkington (2), Kylie Mosley (bow), and coxswain Emily Daniels posted a winning time of 7:32.426, crossing the finish line more than five seconds ahead of Central Oklahoma and nearly ten seconds clear of third-place Embry-Riddle.

"They earned their boat nickname 'FAFF' today against some excellent competition, a race we will never forget," said Associate Head Coach Ashley Donnell. "They dedicated themselves to a 'no fear' approach and stepped up to each challenge presented. Emily Daniels and Addy Toll were staple leaders throughout lineup changes. Not a lot of people will ever get to claim an undefeated season. I am proud of what they have started and look forward to more years with them all except our senior coxswain Emily Daniels who will be missed dearly in the coxswain seat, but I know she has helped prepare those who come next to fill her shoes. While the boat got first, it is important to recognize a whole team and community that pushed us there. The team is second in the nation, which is a great way to end a great season!"

Grit and Fight in the Varsity 8+

In a grueling Varsity 8+ Grand Final that saw crews battling whitecaps and winds, the Lumberjacks fought to a strong third-place finish behind Embry-Riddle and Western Washington. The lineup of Lily Storseth (stroke), Dayanara Anaya (7), Dana Foley (6), Gabriella Griffin (5), Kealey Scott (4), Emily Marsolais (3), Elizabeth Walters (2), Leah Dunn (bow), and coxswain Sonya Scollon posted a season-best time of 6:50.074, holding off Seattle Pacific and Jefferson to secure 12 critical points in the overall team standings.

Program Adds to the Trophy Case

The runner-up team finish marks Cal Poly Humboldt's second runner-up in program history ('04, '25), adding to their three national championships ('12, '14, '23). Humboldt also now boasts four Varsity 4+ titles and a growing presence at the national level. With a combined 24 points from the V4 and V8 crews, Humboldt edged perennial power Western Washington (21 points) and left no doubt about its standing among the nation's elite, and will defend their GNAC title for "Best in the West" next season. 

Saturday Finals – Full Results

Friday Heats & Repechage – Full Results