SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. - Coach Manny Valentin is thrilled to announce the addition of three new staff members to the Skidmore College rowing team this fall: Chris Luff, Maecy Rickman, and Dr. Michael Orr.
 
Chris Luff, a 2023 graduate of Temple University, spent four years rowing on the varsity team. Luff earned a B.S. in Exercise and Sport Science and gained experience as a Strength and Conditioning intern with several varsity teams. Last year, he served as the assistant coach at the Shipley School, and most recently, he was an assistant coach at Ready, Set, Row, where he helped guide three men's crews to podium finishes at USRowing Summer Nationals.
 
Maecy Rickman joins as a volunteer assistant coach. A Saratoga native, Maecy recently completed her undergraduate degree at Boston University, where she captained the women's lightweight team. Under her leadership, her crews achieved second place at the Head of the Charles, won the Knecht Cup, and secured third place at Eastern Sprints. In 2024, Maecy was named a CRCA All-American in the lightweight category.
 
Dr. Michael Orr will also join the team as an assistant coach. A two-time winner of Britain's Henley Royal Regatta, Dr. Orr has also won lightweight doubles at the Head of the Charles Regatta and elite coxless pairs at the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta. In 1987, he represented Great Britain in the coxless pairs at the World University Games. As a coach, his crews have won at both the British National Championships and the US Masters National Championships. He is also a certified USA Triathlon Level I coach and has twice completed Ironman Wisconsin. Dr. Orr is currently a Professor of Art History at Skidmore, having previously served as the Dean of the Faculty and Vice President of Academic Affairs.
 
"With our team more than doubling in size over the past three years, we know that providing quality coaching is paramount to our success. We had a fantastic opportunity to add not just one, but three outstanding coaches to our staff. Each of them brings unique backgrounds and experiences that will strengthen our team. Most importantly, all three are exceptional individuals who embody the values of our program. I am excited to have them join us," said Coach Valentin.
 
The season kicks off on September 12. Be sure to follow Skidmore Rowing on Instagram and now TikTok at @skidmorerowing.