ALBANY, N.Y. – The University at Albany Department of Athletics is proud to announce that the UAlbany women's rowing program will officially join the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) as a full conference member, beginning with the 2025–26 academic year. The announcement marks a major milestone for the program and positions the Great Danes among some of the most competitive rowing programs in the country.
 
The CAA, recognized as one of the nation's top conferences in collegiate rowing, includes a strong lineup of institutions that compete annually at a high level on the regional and national stage. UAlbany becomes the newest addition to the conference as it continues to grow after the team's first official season last spring.
 
Other member institutions include Bryant (also joining today), UC San Diego, UConn, Drexel, Monmouth, Northeastern and Villanova.
 
"This is a tremendous step forward for our women's rowing program," said Director of Athletics Mark Benson. "Joining the CAA gives our team a chance to compete against elite programs and contend for a conference championship. It's a testament to the growth and ambition of our student-athletes and coaching staff."
 
By joining the CAA, UAlbany gains access to a structured championship path with automatic qualification to the NCAA Rowing Championships. The move also enhances exposure and recruiting opportunities for the Great Danes
 
"We are honored to join the CAA and look forward to raising the level of competition in every race," said UAlbany Head Coach Kim Chavers. "This move affirms the strides we've made as a team and provides exciting new opportunities for our athletes."
 
The 2026 CAA Rowing Championship will be held May 15-16 on the Cooper River in Pennsauken, N.J. with the winning team receiving an automatic bid to the NCAA Rowing Championship. Northeastern has captured the past 11 conference titles. UAlbany will continue its full slate of fall regattas as scheduled.
 
Stay up to date with UAlbany rowing by following the team on X (@UAlbanyRowing), Instagram (@ualbanyrowing) and Facebook for all of the latest news and highlights throughout the year.