Three standout athletes from Brock University’s men’s rowing program are set to compete on the international stage, having been selected to represent Canada at the Junior Pan American Games Qualification Regatta in Asunción, Paraguay.
Euan Coulson, Riley Watson and Maddox Harrison were named to the Canadian roster for the March 19 to 22 event, which served as a key qualifier for the upcoming Junior Pan American Games. Their participation marked not only a significant step in their rowing careers but also a moment of pride for Brock’s rowing community. Adding to the accomplishment, Brock’s head coach, Katie Bruggeling, will also be heading south as part of Rowing Canada Aviron’s (RCA) coaching staff.
The national coach and players began pre-competition training on March 14 and spent several days preparing before taking to the water in Paraguay, where they competed against top talent from across the Americas. For all three student-athletes, the chance to wear the Maple Leaf is a milestone moment.
“We are very excited to be representing our country and the Brock Badgers, and we hope to make our country and school proud,” the athletes shared in a joint statement. “We are incredibly grateful to be receiving this opportunity, and we are deeply thankful to the Brock rowing program for supporting us and making our dreams come true.”
The trio arrived on the international scene after a highly successful university season. Between them, they claimed five medals — three at the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) Championships and two at the Canadian University Rowing Championships (CURC). Watson played a huge role in capturing gold at the provincial level and silver on the national stage in the lightweight four boat event. He also teamed up with Coulson and Harrison in the men’s eight boat to earn silver at the OUA and bronze at the CURC. Coulson added an OUA silver in the men’s four to his individual accomplishments.
Coach Bruggeling emphasized how significant the moment is for the program and the athletes alike.
“It’s an incredible opportunity for our Brock rowers to compete at the Junior Pan American Qualification Regatta,” said Bruggeling, adding that the international competition will make for a good test. Athlete selection for the regatta was the result of RCA’s rigorous talent identification system.
The national federation’s NextGen Assessment and Monitoring Program, combined with performances at domestic events including the CURC, OUA Championships, National Rowing Championships and the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta, was used to evaluate candidates. Those who were selected demonstrated consistency, competitiveness and a readiness to compete at the international level.
This call-up reflects the strength of Brock’s rowing infrastructure — from athlete development to coaching leadership. The university continues to be dominant in the sport, and this latest milestone reinforces its place among Canada’s elite rowing institutions.