Founded in 1972, Tennessee Crew is the University of Tennessee’s coed competitive rowing team and one of the oldest club sports on campus. For more than five decades, Tennessee Crew has provided students with the opportunity to compete at the highest levels of collegiate rowing while building a lasting tradition of teamwork, leadership, and community.

Throughout its history, Tennessee Crew has played an important role in the growth of rowing in Knoxville and the Southeast. In 1975, the team hosted the first Head of the Tennessee Regatta, a race that grew into one of the premier head races in the region and remains one of the oldest continuously held head races in the United States. The program has continued to achieve success on the national stage, including Tennessee Crew’s first national championship in 1980 with the Dad Vail Regatta Small College Men’s Pair National Championship.

Over the years, Tennessee Crew athletes have continued to leave their mark at major competitions across the country. From gold medal performances at the Head of the Hooch and strong finishes at national regattas to championship-level results at indoor rowing competitions, Tennessee Crew has built a reputation for dedication and competitive excellence. Most recently, the team earned gold at the 2024 Head of the Hooch in the Men’s Lightweight 4+ event, setting a team course record.

Tennessee Crew’s history has also been shaped by the coaches, alumni, and student-athletes who have dedicated themselves to the program. Former team president and rower Bill Waugh returned to coach Tennessee Crew in 2015 after years of coaching experience with Knoxville Rowing Association juniors and Tennessee Crew, continuing a legacy of mentorship and leadership that has guided generations of Volunteers.

Despite its long history, Tennessee Crew has never had a permanent home. Over the decades, the team has operated from several locations throughout Knoxville, including the Knoxville Glove Company, Ned McWherter Park