Coach Dave Spraker’s Departure as Director & Head Coach

MCRA Coach Departure Letter 07062025

July 7, 2025

Dear Maine Coast Rowing family,

It is with a mix of gratitude and sadness that we share the news of the departure of our Director & Head Coach David  Spraker. After 3+ years of steadfast service to our organization and community, Coach Dave will be stepping down to  attend to pressing family matters and pursue new opportunities in Florida.

Coach Dave has been a dedicated leader, mentor, and role model for our Juniors and Masters rowers, demonstrating not  only a passion for sports but also a genuine commitment to connecting people with rowing and growing MCRA. Under  Coach Dave’s leadership, our teams have achieved remarkable success with back-to-back Junior’s state championships  and many other triumphs on the water. Dave has also embodied the values of hard work, integrity, and perseverance  while preparing Juniors for college and beyond. More than just a coach, he has been a trusted guide, a friend, and a  source of inspiration whose efforts will continue to inspire us for years to come.

As our Director of Rowing, Dave has expanded our programs, creating a culture of teamwork, and unity while working  with the Board to formalize aspects of the club, building connections with other clubs and increasing opportunities to  row and race.

To maintain continuity, we will be speaking with the coaching staff Dave so effectively built to gauge their interest in  continuing with MCRA for the fall season.

Please join me in extending your heartfelt thanks and best wishes to Coach Dave in the coming weeks. We will be hosting  the MCRA club picnic on August 9 at Mitchell Field in Harpswell, and we invite everyone to join us in both celebrating  our love of rowing and showing our appreciation for Dave. We will miss him, his energy, wisdom, and the care he  brought to the roles of Director and Head Coach.

We wish Dave success and happiness in the next chapter of his journey.

 

 

 

Thank you for your continued support.

GO COAST!

Sincerely,

Julian Thomka-Gazdik

President, MCRA Board