Sacramento State announced that its women’s rowing program will join the Mid-American Conference (MAC) as an affiliate member beginning with the 2027 season. The Hornets become the MAC’s seventh women’s rowing program, joining Delaware, Eastern Michigan, High Point, Massachusetts, Temple and Toledo.
MAC Commissioner Dr. Jon A. Steinbrecher welcomed Sacramento State to the conference, emphasizing the program’s established competitive tradition and commitment to excellence, which he said will strengthen the MAC championship field. Sacramento State had competed in the West Coast Conference (WCC) during the 2025-26 season and was previously affiliated with the American Athletic Conference and Conference USA.
Sacramento State Director of Athletics Mark Orr called the move an exciting step that presents tremendous opportunities for student-athletes to compete for conference championships alongside respected rowing programs nationwide. The MAC held its inaugural Women’s Rowing Championship in May 2026 at Ford Lake in Ypsilanti, Michigan, where Massachusetts won the title. The 2027 MAC Women’s Rowing Championship is scheduled for May 15 at the same location.
Head coach Sarah Puddicombe, in her first season leading the program after three years as an assistant coach, expressed enthusiasm about joining the MAC. A two-time All-American coxswain at UC Davis and NCAA national champion as both athlete and coach, Puddicombe said joining the MAC allows the Hornets to build new rivalries and raise their national profile.
The Hornets compete at the Sacramento State Aquatic Center, a premier venue that has hosted the NCAA Women’s Rowing Championship nine times. Sacramento State’s fall schedule begins Oct. 24 with the Head of the American regatta at their aquatic center.
CSB Take
Sacramento State women’s rowing’s move to the Mid-American Conference represents a strategic realignment that enhances the program’s competitive and championship prospects. As the MAC continues to develop its women’s rowing offerings, the Hornets will benefit from new competition and greater exposure within a respected conference framework. With coach Sarah Puddicombe at the helm, the program is well positioned for growth and success on the national stage.
Source: Original report
