Bishop Eustace Preparatory School’s crew team has a long history of success at state and regional levels, preparing students for future success by teaching teamwork, resilience, and leadership skills. The team is affiliated with the NJSIAA (Non-Public A) and frequently competes in regional, national, and international events including the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta, Stotesbury Cup Regatta (the world’s largest high school rowing event) and Garden State Scholastic Championships (the largest scholastic athletic event in New Jersey). All of these events attract thousands of rowers and spectators.

Participation in these events brings significant exposure and pride to the school, with its athletes competing in front of more people than any other sport at the school. In addition, crew, like other sports provides important life experiences to its athletes. Particularly for young women, rowing has become one of the most lucrative collegiate scholarship opportunities thanks to Title IX and the explosion in growth of female rowing teams over the last decade. Combined with the 2023 Deloitte survey findings, 69% of women in leadership roles played competitive sports. It’s clear that rowing plays an important role in the Bishop Eustace Preparatory School experience.

Yet, despite its important role, it has come to the attention of those associated with the team that the school is considering cutting the crew team, quoting budgetary issues. Since the pandemic, the team has had challenges rebuilding to its previous numbers. Crew has become increasingly popular in the area, with Bishop Eustace located directly across from the world-class rowing course on the Cooper River and nearby boathouse. Current and former crew parents recently met with administrative officials regarding a recruitment and fundraising strategy. We are confident that with our new, more aggressive strategies and a little time, we can ensure the sustainability of the program for future generations. Let us not sacrifice a program that offers so much to so many due to short-term challenges. Please join us in signing this petition to preserve the Bishop Eustace crew team and protect these opportunities for current and future student-athletes. Please do not make contributions through this site. Your signature is more than generous. Thank you!