WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ — Monmouth Athletics announced the hire of TJ Scarpa who will take the reins of the Hawks women's rowing program as the third head coach in its history entering the 2026-27 season.
 
"This is an incredible opportunity to build upon the strong foundations of success, determination, and institutional support that already exists across the program," Scarpa said. "I am looking forward to investing in the success of every one of our student-athletes and creating an environment where they can challenge their limits, while also enjoying and taking pride in the work that they do. Ultimately, I want to ensure that every single athlete receives the highest quality experience possible, both within our program and as a member of the Monmouth community."
 
Scarpa begins his first stint as head coach after spending the last two seasons as the Assistant Men's and Women's Rowing Coach at Long Island University where he oversaw all training sessions and managed the maintenance and repair of the program's boats and equipment. Scarpa also led recruiting efforts for both teams, helping to build and strengthen the Sharks' developing Division I program. During his two-year tenure, he directed the program's social media strategy and promotional campaigns while implementing and leading film review sessions designed to advance technical development, stroke efficiency and overall performance for both rowers and coxswains.
 
He helped guide LIU to four golds and seven podium finishes across two years, and at the New York State Championship the team won the Morro Bowl trophy at the Dad Vail Regatta in the women's pair this past spring.
 
"We are thrilled to welcome TJ Scarpa to the Monmouth University family as the newest leader of our women's rowing program," said Director of Athletics Jennifer Sansavero. "TJ's experience has demonstrated a unique ability to develop young talent and foster a competitive, growth-oriented culture. His leadership will build upon the program's strong foundation and position Monmouth Rowing for sustained growth and success in the CAA."
 
During his time at LIU, Scarpa also served as Masters Head Coach at Oyster Bay Community Rowing in Oyster Bay, New York, beginning in 2025. In that role, he developed and organized training programs, managed race lineups, coordinated scrimmage schedules, and oversaw team travel logistics for away regattas. Prior to his move to Long Island, Scarpa served as the Head Men's Coach at Westerville Rowing Club in Ohio following two years with the Hudson River Rowing Association in Poughkeepsie, New York, where he coached both junior and middle and high school athletes.
 
Originally from South Brunswick, New Jersey, Scarpa earned his bachelor's degree in sports communication and journalism from Marist University, where he was a member of the Red Foxes men's rowing team and competed at the 2021 IRA National Championship. He later earned his master's degree in sports coaching from The Ohio State University in 2025.
 
"As a proud New Jersey native, I believe Monmouth serves as a premier destination for college athletes on the East Coast," Scarpa said. "Their institutional commitments to academic and athletic excellence, their growth-oriented and forward-thinking mindset, and their emphasis on a holistic student-athlete experience, all strongly align with my personal beliefs and goals for the program. I firmly support Monmouth's vision of not only developing successful athletes, but also confident, intelligent and well-rounded individuals, committed to the success of whatever they pursue."
 
Monmouth's women's rowing program was established in 2021 under the leadership of Scott Belford, who guided the Hawks through the program's formative years as a member of the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) before retiring in 2025. Scarpa succeeds Olivia Staff, who played an integral role in building and developing the program from its inception. A member of the coaching staff for each of the program's first five seasons, Staff was elevated to Associate Head Coach in 2023 before assuming the role of Acting Head Coach for the 2025-26 season. Her leadership, commitment to the student-athlete experience, and contributions to establishing the program's culture and competitive foundation were instrumental in its continued growth. Since its inaugural season, five Hawks have earned All-CAA honors.

*******
To follow along with everything Hawks Athletics follow @muhawks on Instagram and @MonmouthHawks on X and Facebook. For everything Monmouth Women's Rowing follow @Monmouth_Rowing on Instagram and @MonmouthRowing on X and Facebook.