Rowing Standout Pfeiffer is Named All-NCRC

By Robert McKinney, Athletics Communications Director, (503) 370-6110

SALEM, ORE. -- Willamette University senior rower Kate Pfeiffer (Redding, CA/University Preparatory School) has been selected to the All-Northwest Collegiate Rowing Conference Team (All-NCRC) for the 2012-13 season. Pfeiffer provided standout performances at stroke on the women's varsity 8+ and the women's varsity 4+.

Pfeiffer contributed significant skill to the Bearcats, and also was a team leader on and off the water. She set a quality example for her teammates on Willamette's rowing squads.

"During her rowing career at Willamette, Kate Pfeiffer has always brought a quiet power to the team," Head Coach Ryan Miller said. "Her reserved nature belied a strong competitor and a dedicated student-athlete who led through example. I am thrilled to see her being recognized by the conference for her continued excellence and contributions to the team."

In addition, Pfeiffer and seven other Willamette athletes received recognition on the NCRC All-Academic Team, which required at least a 3.5 grade point average.

Earning All-Academic recognition were Pfeiffer, Alli Claypool-Conrad (So., Ashland, OR/Ashland HS), Kira Egelhofer (So., Anchorage, AL/West Anchorage HS), Anna Fredendall (So., Atlanta, GA/Dekalb School of the Arts), Naomi Morgan (Fr., Poulsbo, WA/North Kitsap HS), Michaelin Richards (So., San Diego, CA/Rancho Bernardo HS), Rachel Robinson (So., Bellevue, WA/Bellevue HS) and Evann Zuckerman (Fr., Glendale, CA/Hoover HS).

"I cannot speak highly enough about the recipients of this award," Miller said. "This recognition reflects an unwavering commitment on their behalf to the high expectations of their coaches and professors.

"These recipients exemplify the goal of Dvision III athletics to foster the comprehensive development of both the student and the athlete. As a coach, I cannot be more proud of their accomplishments."

Willamette completed its season on Saturday, April 4 at the NCRC Championships, which were held at Lake Stevens in Lake Stevens, Wash.