Simsbury Crew is celebrating its 50th Anniversary! Although the celebration will be different than how it was imagined, it will reflect the organization's rich history of success and sportsmanship.
The story of Simsbury Crew began 50 years ago, over a year before Title IX. Before they even took their first stroke, they made national news. The co-ed team began with two girl coxswains, Karen Jacobson and Faith Sandri, when at that time, only boys were rowing. When the school found out about the girls, they immediately removed them from the team. The article that highlighted this fledgling team's controversy, titled "Girls ruled off rowing team" made the front page of the Hartford Courant on February 27, 1971 and was subsequently picked up by the Associated Press. Consequently, a local story of a small rowing team was published in newspapers throughout the country. One of the points of the girl's removal from the team was that "…the school had made no provisions for supervising girls on trips …". If you'd like to read more about this historical moment for Simsbury Crew please visit www.simsburycrew.org to see the article.
As they focus on celebrating 50 years of a successful program, Simsbury Crew is asking for Simsbury Crew alumni to share memories and photos of their days on the team. Please go to the Simsbury Crew Alumni Facebook Page to submit any memories. Photos should go in the correct decade folder for ease of looking back.
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As this winter loosens its grip, the coaches and athletes are hopeful for some water and virus safe races this Spring! The organization's hopes are to continue building on the proud 50-year history of success and sportsmanship.