Sept. 20, 2004

CHARLOTTESVILLE - Roger Payne is joining the University of Virginia women's rowing program as boatman. Payne comes to UVa from the University of Wisconsin where he was boatman since 1993. Prior to his time at Wisconsin, Payne was the head women's rowing coach at Oregon State University.

"Roger brings a wealth of rowing and rigging knowledge to our program," said Virginia women's head rowing coach Kevin Sauer. "We are excited about his decision to come to Virginia and look forward to working with him."

At Virginia, Payne will be responsible for rigging boats, maintaining and repairing shells and training equipment, and assisting with the transportation of equipment on trips.

A 1976 graduate of the University of Washington, Payne rowed lightweight for the Huskies and was a four-time Canadian Henley Lightweight doubles champion. He is an active oarsman and competes in master's events. Payne also worked for Pocock Racing Shells and Owen Racing Shells.

Payne replaces Joel Furtek who left the Virginia program to pursue other interests.

The UVa women's rowing team finished tied for sixth in the final team standings at the 2004 NCAA Women's Rowing Championships and the Cavaliers' varsity four crew won the NCAA Championship in that event. Virginia is one of just four schools to compete in each of the eight NCAA Women's Rowing Championships.