USRowing Announces 2026 Regional Recipients of the USRowing Sportsmanship Award

Honoring athletes who exemplify teamwork, integrity, humility, leadership, and service to the rowing community

USRowing is proud to recognize six exceptional athletes as recipients of the 2026 USRowing Sportsmanship Award. The award honors individuals who embody the highest ideals of rowing through their commitment to teamwork, integrity, humility, and leadership while making a lasting impact on their teammates, clubs, and communities.

Representing each region across the country, these athletes have distinguished themselves not only through their performance on the water, but through the positive influence they have on those around them.

Central Region: Aleks Belov – Austin Rowing Club

Aleks Belov has become a cornerstone of the culture at Austin Rowing Club. Known for her kindness, humility, and unwavering support of her teammates, Aleks consistently serves as both a mentor and trusted sounding board for fellow athletes.

Whether celebrating victory or handling defeat, Aleks approaches every challenge with grace, respect, and determination. Her commitment to helping teammates improve each day has contributed significantly to the growth and positive culture of the club. Through her leadership and example, Aleks has helped transform Austin Rowing Club into a welcoming and supportive environment where athletes thrive.

Southwest Region: Lucy Campbell

Lucy Campbell exemplifies the spirit of selfless leadership and community-centered rowing. A dedicated sculler who is equally happy rowing in a pair, Lucy is driven by her personal mantra: “The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.”

Known for creating an atmosphere of connection, encouragement, and joy, Lucy invests deeply in the success of those around her. She works to understand what motivates each athlete and helps foster an environment where every rower can develop and succeed. Whether supporting novice athletes or competing at the highest levels, Lucy consistently places the needs of the team above herself and inspires others through her integrity, determination, and enthusiasm for the sport.

Mid-Atlantic Region: Eli Cummins – DeMatha Catholic High School

As captain of DeMatha Catholic High School’s rowing program, Eli Cummins has earned the respect of teammates, competitors, and coaches alike through his example-driven leadership and resilience.

Eli is known for being the first to step forward when work needs to be done, encouraging others to join him rather than relying on his title to direct others. Despite facing personal challenges, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to his team, inspiring athletes throughout the region with his perseverance and positive attitude. While his rowing accomplishments have drawn praise, it is his character as a teammate, friend, and gracious competitor that truly defines his impact on the sport.

Southeast Region: Patrick “Blaise” Pritchard – Augusta Rowing Club

Patrick “Blaise” Pritchard embodies the very best qualities of rowing and sportsmanship. Coaches describe him as a rare athlete who demonstrates profound teamwork, integrity, humility, and leadership every day.

One of Blaise’s most remarkable strengths is his dedication to novice athletes. He welcomes new rowers with enthusiasm and ensures they feel valued, included, and supported as they begin their rowing journeys. Beyond his own achievements, Blaise consistently elevates those around him, helping teammates reach their full potential. His commitment to building a stronger, more connected rowing community makes him a deserving recipient of this honor.

Northwest Region: Josie Roberts – Everett Rowing Association

Josie Roberts has transformed the culture of her boathouse through positivity, gratitude, and an unwavering commitment to her teammates. As a team captain, she consistently puts the needs of others before her own and serves as a role model for athletes throughout the program.

Known for cheering on every teammate and celebrating their successes, Josie creates an environment where athletes feel supported and valued. Her daily acts of kindness—from thanking coaches after practice to encouraging teammates with the question, “What made you smile today?”—have fostered a culture of appreciation and connection. Her leadership has strengthened both team morale and performance, leaving a lasting impact on everyone around her.

Northeast Region: Harrison Bartels-Thiel – Northfield Mount Hermon

Harrison Bartels-Thiel is a teammate-first leader who reminds those around him that character matters more than results. Through his actions and words, he has demonstrated that success in rowing extends far beyond erg scores and race outcomes.

Teammates consistently describe Harrison as someone who builds others up, offering encouragement and perspective when it is needed most. Following races, he is often the first to congratulate younger athletes and remind them of their growth and potential. His ability to foster confidence and belonging has made a profound impact on his teammates and reflects the true spirit of sportsmanship.

Celebrating the Spirit of Rowing

The USRowing Sportsmanship Award recognizes athletes whose influence reaches beyond competition and results. Through their leadership, kindness, humility, and dedication to others, Aleks Belov, Lucy Campbell, Eli Cummins, Patrick “Blaise” Pritchard, Josie Roberts, and Harrison Bartels-Thiel have strengthened their teams, enriched their communities, and demonstrated the values that define the sport of rowing.

USRowing congratulates each of these outstanding athletes and thanks them for their contributions to the rowing community. Their examples remind us that true success is measured not only by performance, but by the positive impact we have on others.