Susan Parkman Named Head Coach of Bearcat Rowing Team

Photo Courtesy: Susan Parkman Photography

SALEM - Susan Parkman, who stepped in to guide the Willamette University rowing program on an interim basis earlier this year, has officially been named the new head coach of Bearcat rowing, Athletic Director Mark Majeski said Wednesday.

Parkman took over the team just weeks before the start of the spring rowing season when the previous coach resigned.

She will remain as Head Coach for the 2006-2007 school year.

Parkman brings an impressive list of credentials that includes a stint as assistant coach of the 2004 Olympic Rowing team.

She also coached at Seattle's Lakeside School where her varsity girl's team had several rowers place at nationals, and the Men's Masters Rowing team at the Willamette Rowing Club in Portland.

“Susan did a great job of stepping in leading the team to a very successful spring season,“ said Majeski.

“We`re lucky to have someone with her experience and credentials to take over the program and we look forward to a great future with Bearcat rowing.“

Parkman began her coaching career as the head coach of the Santa Clara University Rowing Club in 1984 and coached at the University of Washington the following year.

She also spent ten years as Head Coach of the juniors and masters for the Seattle Yacht Club Rowing Program.

“Taking over the Willamette rowing program is a great opportunity. During this spring season, I found the Willamette athletes dedicated, bright and extremely hard-working. The improvement we saw over this spring season will help take us to a new level when we get back onto the water next fall,“ said Parkman.

Along with her rowing duties, Parkman is also a professional photographer.

Adding comments to these stories has been disabled. View the current sports stories Salem-News Sports