Jimmy Catalano: Day in the Life of a National Team Coxswain and Collegiate Rowing Coach

My name is Jimmy Catalano, and I am a current coxswain for the U.S. national team. In a system that is highly dependent on clubs to help athletes train, I was concerned about how I would continue to improve as an elite level athlete upon graduating from college.

I wanted to make sure that I continued to spend time around the eight, because that is the boat I would be contending for during my time on the national team. I wanted to make sure that after a long fall/winter season, I would show up to Selection Camp better than I had the year prior. I wanted to expand my knowledge and understanding of eights racing, crafting lineups, and rigging. I weighed my options and decided that working at a Division 1 collegiate institution was the best opportunity for me to do that.

I want to preface this article by saying that this was the best decision for me in this specific instance, but it is by no means the "right" decision, nor what I was told to do. Every coxswain on the national team has a different path to get to where they want to go, and this is just a snapshot of how I ended up being an assistant coach for the Northeastern Men's rowing program and coxing the senior men's eight in both 2022 and 2023.

As a men's rowing coach at Northeastern University, my role goes far beyond the title. I am a mentor, strategist, and motivator for a team of dedicated athletes. Each day is a dynamic blend of coaching, planning, and fostering a sense of camaraderie among the rowers.

My day typically kicks off with an early morning start, aligning with the team's rigorous training schedule. We hit Charles River for morning practice sessions. These sessions are not just about perfecting rowing techniques, but also building team synergy and instilling discipline. I work closely with each rower and the other coaches, offering personalized feedback to enhance their performance.

After the morning practice, I transition to the coaching office to review upcoming competitions, strategize training programs, and work on recruiting our next class of athletes. Planning is crucial, as it ensures that every member of the team is on the same page regarding goals, expectations, and upcoming events. Whether it's refining stroke techniques or planning race strategies, my focus is on continuous improvement.

In addition to on-the-water training and strategic planning, a significant part of my role involves coxswain specific improvement. I try to be a resource and instill guidance that I wish I had received when I was in their shoes. I find this role just as beneficial for myself as the coxswains at Northeastern do. It gives me a space to talk about coxswain rhetoric and bounce ideas off very high-level coxswains.

Off the water, I also dedicate time to recruiting new talent, attending meetings with university officials, and collaborating with support staff to ensure the team's overall well-being. Building a strong sense of community among the rowers is essential.

Being a coxswain at the national level adds another layer. Balancing practices, travel plans, and staying in top shape is crucial. It's not just about the college team; it's about representing the country on a bigger stage.

Being a men's rowing coach at Northeastern University is not just a job; it's a commitment to nurturing athletes, both in their athletic pursuits and personal growth. Despite the challenges, this dual role is extremely rewarding. Watching the college team grow and being part of the national success makes every day an adventure. Navigating coaching at Northeastern and coxing for the national team is a journey filled with ups and downs, where challenges turn into chances to get better, and victories are shared by all.