The Legend of the Ergman

In the summer of 2004, something strange blew in from the Pacific Northwest. Many did not know what it was. Some feared the river would never be the same. Low and behold, it was "ERGMAN!"

You may not be familiar with the legend of the Ergman, but you have certainly met the man behind the cape, Mr. Steve Loaiza (if you spell his last name incorrectly, he might threaten to take away your Bow Certification). The cape first debuted on the East Coast at the Spring 2005 Erg Armageddon at Bucknell University. He claimed second place in the Master's 1000m competition.

Our fearless coach is currently recuperating from an ankle operation, so we wish him a speedy recovery and hope to see him out on the water as soon as possible!

Since I've just rejoined the team in the Fall of '09, someone will have to explain the significance of the Ergman cape being passed down to a new generation.

Speaking of medals, Susquehanna University has a long history of greatness when it comes to competing at Erg Armageddon. Chris Meharg '03 and Cait Eytel '07 routinely smashed records in both the 2k and 500m dash -- which can still be seen on the Erg Record Board in the Susquehanna Green Room.

Alumni medalists include Jen Brunnet '03, Brian Card '04, Jen Murphy '04, Elaine Wood '05, Laura Jagielski '06, Jasmine Wright '06, Andy DeBrunner '06, Marissa Chamberlain '07, Brad Biondi '07, Brendan Wirth '07, Chris Pfaff '07, Brian Nalls '07, Josh Gregoire '08, Rachel Fetrow '08, and Coach Brian Tomko.

Some of our more recent medalists include James Hendershot, Zach Ross, and coxswain Sarah McGill.

I wanted to take some time to recognize some of the amazing accomplishments of our team in the past, but am looking forward to what the future holds. The most important goal that you as a rower can concentrate on at this point in the season is working toward a personal record at each time you test!