The beginning of the school year marked an exciting transition, as Francis Stripp has become the newest member of the Bucknell Men’s Crew coaching staff in the role of Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator. Stripp comes to coach the Bison after two years as a Graduate Assistant Coach at his alma mater, St. Lawrence University, in Canton, NY.
Bucknell Men’s Crew Head Coach Dan Wolleben commented, “Francis will be a great addition to our program. His experiences as a student athlete and coach will benefit us at Bucknell, and I look forward to seeing him challenge and support our student-athletes. It was clear through the interview process that Francis has a passion for collegiate coaching and recruiting, and is eager to jump in and help guide the current Bison rowers.”
At St. Lawrence, Stripp primarily worked with the Novice Men’s team to develop walk-ons and incorporate them into the boat with experienced recruits. He guided the Novices to take a Liberty League Championship, Bronze at the New York State Championships and a Liberty League Men’s Novice Crew of the Year award.
“I am very excited to be joining the Bucknell family on a team that is rich in tradition and has a strong alumni support surrounding the program,” said Stripp. “I am eager to help coach the team to repeated success and continue to work with the rowers and coxswains to tap into their maximum potential.”
Prior to coaching at St. Lawrence, Stripp spent a season working with the Grateful Oars Rowing Club in Norwood, NY.
Stripp was a walk on rower at St. Lawrence University, and was a varsity member of the Saint’s Crew Team his entire time there, earning a seat in the varsity eight every year. He graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor’s in Geology before returning to add a Master’s in Educational Leadership in 2017.