WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ – Scott Belford, who oversaw the historic commencement of the Monmouth University Rowing program, has announced his retirement from coaching. Belford was the first coach in school history, and built the women's rowing program beginning with its inception in 2021. 
 
"I am honored to have had the opportunity to build the foundation of this program," said Belford. "The future is bright for Monmouth Rowing and I am excited to see the team continue to grow and thrive!" 
 
Belford and the Hawks had a successful 2024-25 season, as the Freshman 4+ boat captured a gold medal at the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta. The Varsity 8+ finished sixth in the Petite Final at the Knecht Cup, and Ashlyn Fehr and Sam Staubach were named All-CAA at the conference championship.
 
"Scott's impact on Monmouth Rowing is immeasurable," said Jennifer Sansevero, Monmouth Director of Athletics. "As the program's first head coach, he laid the foundation and built a culture of integrity, resilience, and competitive excellence. His dedication and vision have shaped the program into what it is today, and we are incredibly grateful for his years of leadership and service. We wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement."
 
The 2023-24 season saw significant progress for Belford and the Hawks as they had three boats compete at the CAA Championship. Addison Cohen was named All-CAA, and the Freshman 8+ boat earned the program's first ever medal at the Dad Vail Regatta.
 
Belford led the Hawks through their first season in 2022-23. The Freshman 8+ finished third in the first-ever race by a Monmouth boat at the Navy Day Regatta. Marissa McKenzie was named All-CAA in the programs' inaugural year. 
 
Student-athletes under Belford earned several academic honors, including College Sports Communicators Academic All-District, Chi Alpha Sigma Honor Society and CAA Commissioner's Academic Honor Roll.
 
Sansevero has named Olivia Staff Acting Head Coach for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Staff has been on staff since the first season of the program, and was elevated to Associate Head Coach in 2023.