In Episode 4, Alex sits down with Malvern Prep Head Coach James Konopka to explore what it really takes to build a coaching career—and a program—from the ground up.

James grew up in rowing, with the sport deeply embedded in his family, but his path into coaching was anything but easy. From making $10,000 his first year and cold-emailing for opportunities, to learning by sitting in launches and asking questions, his story is a blueprint for young coaches trying to break into the sport.

The conversation goes deeper than results. James reflects on how his philosophy has evolved—from chasing medals to focusing on athlete development, accountability, and long-term engagement in the sport. He shares what he’s learned about goal setting, mentorship, and why curiosity—not confidence—is the defining trait of great coaches.

They also tackle bigger questions:

• Is there a real path to becoming a professional rowing coach?
• Is scholastic rowing growing or eroding?
• And what is the sport missing to move forward?

This episode is a candid look at coaching, growth, and the future of rowing—from one of the sport’s rising young leaders.

In this episode, Alex sits down with Sarah Low, Executive Director of Sammamish Rowing and longtime junior coach, to talk about coaching development and the future of the sport.

Two key ideas stand out in the conversation. First, the best coaching education doesn’t happen in lectures or online seminars — it happens in small, in-person conversations where coaches can challenge ideas, ask questions, and learn from each other. Second, many young coaches hold themselves back by assuming top coaches are unreachable. Sarah shares how one simple email asking to observe a practice turned into a valuable learning experience — and why more coaches should be willing to just ask.

It’s a thoughtful discussion about mentorship, confidence, and how better coaching knowledge spreads through the sport.

2026e2 - Julian Canha - DC National
Julian Canha is a veteran high school head coach and program director with nearly two decades of experience, including dominant programs as an assistant at Montclair and and head coach at DC National. A former coxswain and University of Michigan rower, he’s led undefeated varsity seasons, won multiple Stotesbury and SRAA medals, coached USA Junior National Team athletes, and developed rowers recruited to Ivy League schools, Cal, and Washington.