Joe Sievert ’24 recently competed with the University of Michigan Men’s Rowing Team, helping the Wolverines win the 2025 Men’s Team Points Trophy at the American Collegiate Rowing Association (ACRA) National Championship Regatta in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

The championship brought together more than 75 collegiate rowing programs from across the country. Michigan reclaimed the national title from Purdue, medaling in six of ten events along the way. Joe competed in the First Freshman (1F) boat, which staged an impressive comeback in the finals to secure third place after surging from fifth to third in the final 1,000 meters.

“Winning the points trophy was a great accomplishment in several ways,” Joe shared. “Going into the final race, we knew Purdue was ahead, and my boat needed to beat them to secure the overall championship. We hadn’t come close to them all year, but somehow we did when it mattered most.”

Joe describes the atmosphere at nationals as one of intensity and focus: “You train all year for what comes down to the longest six minutes of your life. Every person has to give everything they have left to push the boat over the line first.”

For Joe, the team culture at Michigan was key to their success. “Our entire strategy is recruiting and developing freshmen who are athletic and competitive, most of whom didn’t row before college. Chemistry is everything in rowing, and we’ve built a bond both on and off the water that makes us stronger as a team.”

That sense of brotherhood reminded Joe of his time at Catholic Central. “CC prepared me for college in every way. The virtues of Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge show up every day in rowing—staying positive, pushing through pain, and learning from experienced coaches. The brotherhood here at Michigan is the same: finding teammates who complement your weaknesses and push you beyond your limits.”

He also drew inspiration from lessons learned as a Shamrock hockey player, particularly from the story of former teammate Jack Swamba. “Coach Kal’s story of Jack taught me the rewards of perseverance. Even when I was told my form wasn’t good enough for the first boat, I kept pushing. By spring, I had earned a place there.”

With practices lasting up to four hours per day during the spring season, balancing athletics and academics is no small task. Joe manages it by making the most of every spare moment. “I’ve learned to get homework done between classes or even at the boathouse after practice. College gives you the flexibility to take ownership of your time.”

Looking back, Joe offers this advice for current Catholic Central students: “Don’t let any single part of your life define your story. Athletics and academics are both important, but so are the relationships you build along the way. The diversity of perspectives and experiences you surround yourself with will shape you far more than any one achievement.”

Congratulations to Joe Sievert ’24 on this outstanding accomplishment, and best wishes as he continues his journey at the University of Michigan.