MARIETTA, Ohio — Head Coach Chris Pucella recently announced the hiring of 2009 University of Central Florida graduate Stephen Harris as the Assistant Men's Rowing Coach at Marietta College.

Harris spent last spring as an assistant varsity coach for the Orlando Area Rowing Society. From the fall of 2007 through the fall of 2008, he was the men's varsity coach for the Boone High School crew, managed by the South Orlando Rowing Association (SORA).

"I am excited to be a part of the history that is already established with Marietta College, both academically and in the sport of rowing," Harris said. "I look forward to working with the faculty and staff as well as the student-athletes to continue this tradition and bring another view to the scene to enhance it."

Harris was a four-year member of the men's crew club at Central Florida in Orlando, Fla. He served as the club's treasurer in 2004-05 and then as a captain and club president during the 2005-06 season. In addition to leading the men's crew in 2005-06, he was also the Sports Club Council President at Central Florida.

Harris, who lives in Marietta, earned a Bachelor of Science in physical education with a minor in coaching from Central Florida. USRowing certifies him as a Level II coach.

"I have worked with Stephen Harris and I can attest to his knowledge and passion for the sport of rowing," Pucella said. "He also has a great desire to continue to grow as a coach, and Marietta College is a logical next step for his development. I am happy to have him onboard with the Pioneer Navy."

Marietta men's crew is looking to build off another successful season, highlighted by a Varsity 8+ victory at the 15th annual Marietta Invitational and a Freshmen/Novice 8+ bronze medal at the Dad Vail Rowing Championship. The Pioneers will open the fall season in early October at a race still to be determined.