The CHARGERS Rowing Club was formed as a community not for profit organization in 1972 by former Syracuse University Men’s Rowing coach and Onondaga County Legislator Bill Sanford. Coach Sanford’s vision was to bring the Olympic and lifetime sport of rowing to the people of the greater Syracuse community, utilizing existing resources and expertise.

Since its inception, the CHARGERS have focused on contributing to the Central New York community through cooperation and synergy with other CNY institutions including: Syracuse University, Onondaga County and the County parks system, City of Syracuse Area High Schools. With its dedicated volunteers and history of responsible fiscal management, the CHARGERS have provided valuable resources to the Central New York community-without the financial support of governmental entities or other third parties.

The CHARGERS continue a long and proud CNY tradition of the sport of rowing on Onondaga Lake, which began in 1879.

  Partnership with Local Schools

The CHARGERS are proud of the relationship it has developed with area high schools. Initially, Liverpool High School was the sole high school rowing program affiliated with the CHARGERS.

The CHARGERS relationship with Liverpool continues today, and has expanded to include:  Syracuse City Schools (1995) Baldwinsville Schools (2000) Fayetteville-Manlius Schools (2004) Lemoyne College (2013)

From 1995 to 2000, the CHARGERS hosted the US Rowing Club National Championships. These four-day events brought national attention-as well as travelers and their dollars to the Syracuse community. The ’97 event alone drew approximately 10,000 spectators to the area. US Rowing, the governing body of rowing in this country, has asked the CHARGERS to host future regional or national regattas.  The CHARGERS have also hosted the US Rowing Masters Nationals, another four-day event with over 1200 participants.  In the spring of each year, the Club hosts the Syracuse CHARGERS Invitational Regatta, which consistently draws over 1000 New York State high school athletes and their families.

We also host the Section III regional’s.

Mission Statement

To develop a dynamic membership and promote a vibrant rowing community while encouraging an appreciation of and respect for the natural resources that surround us. Vision: A club which fosters the development of our youth, contributes to the economic well-being of our community, and promotes healthy physical/social activities for all age groups within the Greater Syracuse area.