Kevin Sauer
Rowing Consultant (Charollesville, VA)
Kevin Sauer – Former University of Virginia Rowing Head Coach
Kevin Sauer is a distinguished figure in the world of rowing, with over five decades of experience as a collegiate rower and coach. His remarkable journey spans 53 years, marked by success at the club, varsity, and international levels. Sauer’s dedication to the sport has made an indelible impact on athletes, teams, and the rowing community worldwide.
Athletic and Coaching Achievements
Collegiate Experience:
Represented the U.S. National Team as a rower in 1975 and 1977.
Began his coaching career at the club level, shaping athletes at Purdue University for eight years and the University of Virginia for seven years. His leadership yielded multiple Dad Vail medals, including historic victories for Purdue over Wisconsin in the Varsity 8 in 1981 and 1982.
Guided the Virginia women to a National Championship in the Varsity 4 in 1995.
Varsity Level Success:
Men’s Frosh Coach at Yale University for three years, highlighted by a victory over Harvard in 1985.
Head coach of the Virginia Varsity Women’s Rowing program for 29 years, achieving unparalleled success:
2 NCAA Team Championships
9 NCAA Boat Championships
22 ACC Team Championships
International Contributions:
Coached U23 teams to multiple podium finishes:
Gold in the Women’s 4x (2007)
Gold in the Women’s 8+ (2008)
Silver in the Men’s 8+ (2015)
Bronze in the Women’s 4- (2019)
Gold in the Women’s 8+ (2022)
Mentored athletes who competed at the Olympic level, including 19 Olympians from the University of Virginia, with the Women’s 2x finishing 6th in 2016.
Kevin Sauer’s enduring commitment to excellence, innovative coaching methods, and ability to inspire athletes have established him as a legend in the rowing world. His influence continues to shape the future of the sport.