SAN DIEGO, Calif. - Coming off of an historic run in Boston, the University of San Diego men's rowing team heads to Lake Natoma (site of the 2017 IRA Championships) for the Head of the American this weekend.

"There is a distinct change in focus for a race like the Head of the American where our entire squad will be racing." said Head Coach Brooks Dagman. "Being able to recombine from just a 4 into making the Varsity, JV, and Frosh 8's race ready creates additional opportunities for competition within the team, keeping everyone honest."

The Frosh 8 will race first in event #11 at 10:00AM - this boat is comprised of Simon Finnie, Jack Posthauer, Max O'toole, Evan Nassar, Liam McCann, Sam Jones, Matt Clarkson, Michael Darby, and coxwain Sarah Anne Goh. The Toreros will be going up against conference rivals Santa Clara, while also facing down powerhouse Stanford University.

"This is the first race for our Frosh at the collegiate level, and for some their first ever rowing race," quipped assistant coach David Janiak. "You forever remember your first college race and we are looking forward to having a fast run down the course."

The Varsity and JV 8's will be in the Open 8, event # 32 at 1:15PM, facing off against the defending National Champions from Cal, in addition to conference and regional rivals UC Santa Barbara, Stanford, Gonzaga, and Santa Clara.

"We are excited to be able to get a check against these teams so early in the year. Its time for our first business trip of the season, looking to cash in on the dividends of the hard work the squad has been putting in and are hoping to make a lasting impact on our competitors," finished Coach Dagman.

VARSITY 8 : Cox - Will Graf, Connor Olson, Nick Watson, Nick Bea, Owen Chase, Jack Pokalsky, Parker Danz, Luke Walbeck, Sam Stephens

JV 8 :Cox - Fiona Murphy, Griffin Daniel, James Davenport, Konrad Altvater, Matt Kaumeyer, Evan Ferree, Grady Koepele, Luke Uetrecht, Pierce Salamack

Regatta info http://www.sacstateaquaticcenter.com/special-events/hoa.html.html