Villanova University officially dedicated the Cavanaugh Family Boathouse on October 25th along the riverfront in Conshohocken (Whitemarsh Township). The boathouse was a two-decade effort, according to the university, and marks a “significant milestone for current student-athletes and coaching staff along with the alumnae, families and supporters who helped bring the project to life.” The dedication included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours of the facility led by the program’s student-athletes.
The boathouse was made possible through the leadership of Terry and Patty Cavanaugh and their family, which spearheaded the project. The Cavanaugh’s daughter, Maggie Cavanaugh ’17, was a member of the Villanova Rowing team and served as a team captain. Additional support came from alumnae of the program, and families and friends of the program.
“Rowing has an important place in Philadelphia and Villanova history from a competition and architectural standpoint,” Terry Cavanaugh said. “I am delighted this building will now add to that history going forward. Villanova has a new home for the women’s varsity and men’s club rowing programs which speaks to the future and embodies the Villanova motto of Caritas, Unitas and Veritas which is learned on the water, in the classroom and in the community.”
Villanova’s rowing program has utilized the same property for more than 20 years, but now have a modern facility that includes includes locker rooms, a video room, strength and conditioning space, and a fueling station. The project is part of Espiritus Nova: The Campaign for Villanova University, which includes investments in facilities that strengthen the student experience across the University.
“The Cavanaugh Family Boathouse represents an important investment in the Villanova Rowing program and in the entire student-athlete experience,” Vice President and Director of Athletics Eric Roedl said. “Our rowers are among our toughest and most dedicated, hard-working student-athletes. This beautiful facility supports them as they work to realize their fullest potential and build lasting memories and experiences at Villanova. This project was made possible through donor support as well as part of our ongoing Espiritus Nova capital campaign. To everyone in the Villanova Rowing community who contributed, thank you. Every gift has made this project a reality.”
“Today I look around this incredible building, and I see so much more than just boats, walls and equipment,” said Villanova Rowing Head Coach Carissa Adams. “I see 30 years of alumnae refusing to give up. I see donors who believed in something bigger than themselves. I see a university that chose to invest in the future of women’s rowing, and I see a place where generations of Villanova women will come together, challenge themselves, support one another and discover just how much they are capable of. This building belongs to every woman who has ever worn the V.”
Villanova Rowing will host a fall scrimmage on Sunday, November 8th, at the Cavanaugh Family Boathouse.
Photos – Greg Carociccio of Sideline Photos via Villanova University