PHILADELPHIA – Thomas Jefferson University Assistant Vice President for Athletics Corey Goff announced today that Ryan Hurley has been named head coach of the women's rowing program.

Hurley becomes just the third head coach in program history, bringing with him a proven record of success and leadership. He joins Jefferson after 12 years with the University of Delaware rowing program, where he served as Associate Head Coach for the women's team from 2013 to 2023 before transitioning to Assistant Coach for the men's program for the past two seasons. During his tenure, Hurley guided the women's team to medal finishes in the varsity four and varsity eight, while helping the men's first, second, and third varsity eights achieve top-10 rankings at the ACRA National Championship.

"I would like to thank Corey Goff and the Thomas Jefferson University Athletic Department for giving me the opportunity to lead the Rams' rowing team," said Hurley. "The entire interview process made me feel like this is not only a place where I belong, but also an incredible setting to achieve the future vision for the team. With the facilities, the student-athletes, and the support staff I've already met, the foundation to build something truly special on Boathouse Row is here. I'm eager to get on campus and begin preparing for what I believe will be an exciting Spring 2026 campaign. Go Rams!"

Hurley's coaching journey spans several institutions nationwide. He previously served as head coach at Liberty University, where he worked primarily with the women's varsity and novice squads. Under his leadership, the Flames earned two grand final appearances at the SIRA Regatta, including a silver medal in the Women's Lightweight Four, both program firsts. His experience also includes coaching roles at Virginia Tech, UMass Lowell, Lowell High School, and Brandeis University.

As a collegiate rower at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Hurley earned a bronze medal in the Men's Lightweight Eight at the 2000 Champion International Regatta and a gold medal in the Men's Heavyweight Four at the 2001 Avaya Collegiate Championships (now the ECAC National Invitational Collegiate Regatta).

"Ryan brings the perfect combination of passion and purpose to Jefferson Rowing," said Goff. "As an educator first, he prioritizes the growth and success of our student-athletes both on the water and in the classroom. His positive energy, proven ability to recruit exceptional talent, and versatility in coaching all skill levels will help us build a program that reflects Jefferson's commitment to academic and athletic excellence."

Hurley is a 2001 graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he earned a degree in psychology. He holds a Level III USRowing Coaching Certification and is an AFAA-certified personal trainer.