JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Dolphins men's rowing team announced JU alumnus Will Vanneck as the program's new assistant coach. Vanneck started his career as a novice walk-on with the Dolphins and now returns to the program's coaching staff.

"It felt like the stars aligned again for us to bring Will back to Jacksonville as a coach," head coach Preston Weinard said. "I'm excited for Will to give back to our program and our student-athletes. He is passionate about developing our team as humans, students, and athletes, and he already fits in well with our staff. Although we didn't row with each other at JU, Will and I share fond memories of our times as a JU Oarsman. We appreciate where Jacksonville has been and will work collaboratively to drive our program forward. I look forward to working closely with a high quality man like Will!"

While rowing at JU, he helped Jacksonville to several big results. Among the most notable achievements from his time on the water was a win at the Dad Vail Regatta with the novice eight, in addition to other strong results at major events throughout his Dolphin career. Before learning to row as a Dolphin, Vanneck was a multi-sport athlete, competing in the likes of lacrosse, basketball, swimming and track and field.

During his time in Jacksonville, he studied kinesiology with a focus on areas like biomechanics and sports performance. He brings that experience and knowledge back to his college home at the Negaard Rowing Center.

"I am a fresh pair of eyes for the program in a coaching aspect," Vanneck said. "I am excited to navigate this new path and chapter of my life with the same entuiasiam and love I had when I discovered this sport right here at the Negaard Boathouse."