JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville University men's rowing team celebrated its seniors on Saturday morning and competed against Embry-Riddle and Grand Valley State on the St. Johns River outside the Negaard Rowing Center in impressive fashion.

"It was a good day of racing," head men's rowing coach Jason Cottingham said. "The conditions were very challenging and presented issues for all crews but I'm very proud of our team and the way they handled the conditions and the competition. The coaches for Embry-Riddle did a great job of preparing the team and we are very fortunate to be able to race such a talented team early in the season."

The Dolphins honored the careers of David Abraham, Gregory Diggins, Giovanni Magro, Ryan Springer, Thornton Szynkarski following the racing but not before the Dolphins picked up a pair of victories on the water.

"We had an amazing event today honoring our seniors," Cottingham reflected. "Thank you to all that attended. We are now looking forward to spring break to be able to continue our progress."

First, the men's Varsity 8 picked up a victory in 6:04.6, a full second ahead of the team from Embry-Riddle. Then it was the 2nd Varsity 8 picking up a win in the second race ahead of three other teams, finishing in 6:41.1, 16 seconds ahead of second place.

"This race marked the end of Grand Valley's spring training camp here in Florida," Cottingham concluded. "As their season progresses, I fully expect them to continue to make big gains through the season with an athletic team and talented coaches."

Up next for Jacksonville will be a race at Stetson on Mar. 23 followed by a race at FIT on Mar. 30 before the FIRA Championships in April.