SMITHFIELD, RI – Bryant University is pleased to announce associate membership in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) in the sport of women's rowing, effective immediately.  The announcement was made today by CAA Commissioner Joe D'Antonio.

Bryant and UAlbany will both join as associate members this year and become the eighth rowing members of the CAA, joining the UC San Diego, University of Connecticut, Drexel University, Monmouth University, Northeastern University, and Villanova University. 

"We are thrilled to have a home for our women's rowing program," said Smith.  "The Coastal Athletic Association is a tremendous conference in the sport of women's rowing with so many nationally-recognized programs and tradition of success and Bryant University is proud to join the CAA and look forward to competing for championships right away."

Bryant recently elevated its women's program to Division I status in 2022.  Under the direction of head coach Stephanie Ricker, the Bulldogs have competed in such prestigious events as the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston and Dad Vails in Philadelphia.  This past season at the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta, Bryant's Second Varsity 4 reached the Grand Final and placed third.

"I am excited for the team to start the season with this news," Ricker said. "Joining the CAA is a milestone, giving us new direction and allowing us to take the program to the next level; with strong competition and even more opportunities for our student-athletes. We have a huge challenge ahead of ourselves, but these athletes are ready and poised to take on that challenge. I want to thank the Bryant University President Ross Gittell, Director of Athletics Bill Smith, CAA Commissioner Joe D'Antonio, and everyone that worked diligently to ensure that we were able to join a conference that aligned not just with our competitive goals but with our overall values."

The 2026 CAA Rowing Championship will be held May 15-16 on the Cooper River in Pennsauken, N.J. with the winning team receiving an automatic bid to the NCAA Rowing Championship. Northeastern has captured the past 11 conference titles.

Located in Smithfield, RI, Bryant University is an associate member of the CAA in the sport of football.