Princeton University Athletics
Former Crew Captain Spencer Washburn '05 Returns As Assistant Lightweight Coach
September 27, 2007 | Men's Rowing - Lightweight
Spencer Washburn, a three-time medalist as a Princeton heavyweight rower, has returned to campus to serve as the assistant coach for the men's lightweight program, it was announced Sept. 27 by head coach Greg Hughes. Washburn, who coached at the Hun School over the last two years, replaces Scott Alwin, the new head coach at Columbia University.
Washburn spent two years in the Princeton varsity 8+, including a 2004 season that saw the Tigers claim a silver medal at Eastern Sprints. He was named varsity captain in 2005 and was the co-recipient of the W. Lyman Biddle Award (Leadership and Sportsmanship). He won another silver medal at Eastern Sprints that season, his final as a Princeton rower. His first came in 2003, when he helped lead the freshmen 8+ to a bronze at the IRA national championships.
Following his 2005 graduation, Washburn spent two years at the Hun School of Princeton as the Associate Director of Residential Life, a history teacher and coach of the varsity girls' crew. In two years, the varsity 4+ and lightweight 4+ made the SRAA (Scholastic Rowing Association of America) national championships twice. Both placing fifth during the 2007 championships.
"Spencer is a hard worker and a serious competitor," Hughes said. "He has the kind of integrity we expect on our team to make it strong. I am excited to have Spencer with us and I look forward to getting to work with him."