SHE BUILT a regional high school rowing powerhouse at Seattle’s Holy Names Academy and served in multiple coaching positions with the U.S. women’s national team.
Now, Seattle Pacific women’s rowing program is benefiting from Caitlin McClain’s knowledge and experience as she assumes the role of head coach for the team.
“Coaching high school in the Northwest for over 15 years, I’ve always been aware of Seattle Pacific University’s high reputation,” McClain said. “The recent growth of the crew program has only strengthened that impression. The more I’ve learned about SPU, the more strongly I’ve felt that my personal and professional philosophy align with the mission of the University.”
McClain lives in Seattle where she has resided since 2005 while working at Holy Names, from which she graduated in 2001.
She served as an assistant coach for the Under-19 women’s national team in 2014, then was promoted to CanAmMex coach in 2016, and the junior world championships coach in 2019.
“The more I’ve learned about SPU, the more strongly I’ve felt that my personal and professional philosophy align with the mission of the University.” — CAITLIN MCCLAIN
A 2005 Loyola Marymount graduate with bachelor’s degrees in political science and urban studies, McClain completed a master’s of education in student development administration at Seattle University in 2010.
McClain earned three varsity letters at Holy Names and captained the team her final two years (2000 and 2001) as a student competitor. She helped the Cougars’ varsity four crew to a silver medal at nationals her senior season.
At Loyola Marymount, she occupied the stroke seat of the varsity eight for every race as a freshman. The Lions thrived during her four seasons, reaping titles at the West Coast Conference, WIRA, and San Diego Crew Classic regattas.
“I’ve always attended and worked at faith-based institutions. I think the values that guide a community really strengthen the work being done in each part of it,” McClain said. “Certainly, in rowing, the idea that one is a part of something greater than themselves is complementary to the teamwork necessitated by the sport. I see myself as a facilitator of an athlete’s goals and can’t wait to get started on the next chapter.”
