Washington, D.C. – On October 4, 2025, the Washington-Liberty (W-L) High School Crew Boosters hosted a special event to commemorate the 50th anniversary of W-L’s s women’s rowing program. Held at the historic Potomac Boat Club in Georgetown, the celebration brought together alumni, friends, current rowers, and past and present coaches to reflect on five decades of memories, milestones, and team achievements.
The W-L women’s rowing program was founded in 1975—25 years after the launch of the school’s men’s program by legendary rower and coach Charlie Butt. The inaugural women’s coach, W-L alumnus and former rower Tom Chisnell, opened Saturday’s program by sharing reflections on the team’s early years and growth over time. Additional speakers included Leona Pulasch, a member of the original 1975 boat, along with other alumnae and coaches who offered powerful insights into the life lessons and leadership skills developed through rowing.
“You were way ahead of your time, not just in building this team at W-L, but in building this sport for girls around the country,” said Kara McPhillips, current head coach of the W-L crew team. “Thank you so much for what you created and what you are continuing to support.”
The 2026 girls team captains also delivered remarks, offering their own reflections on the legacy they’re proud to uphold.
“50 years ago, Tom Chisnell and the rowers built this team from the ground up, seizing every opportunity they were given and creating a strong program that would last for years to come,” said Anna Brodsky, W-L girls team co-captain. “Now, thanks to the hard work of all the alumni that came before us, every woman on W-L’s team has the opportunity to race competitively and be part of this storied program.”
Guests enjoyed a catered lunch and dessert from two beloved Arlington businesses—Rocklands Barbeque and Heidelberg Bakery—before posing for a group photo along the banks of the Potomac River. The event also featured a silent auction and merchandise sale, with all proceeds benefitting the W-L Crew Boosters.
W-L Crew is a no-cut club sport that is almost entirely self-funded. Every year, the Boosters must raise substantial funds to support scholarship athletes and make rowing accessible to Arlington youth. To donate, please visit: w-lcrewboosters.org/donate.
About Washington-Liberty Crew
The W-L Crew program is one of the region’s most storied and successful high school rowing teams. It began in 1949 when legendary rower and coach Charlie Butt proposed the idea to school administrators, launching what would become a nationally competitive program. In the 75 years since, W-L Crew has produced dozens of elite athletes, along with many high school and college-level coaches. The program has also played a key role in helping establish other rowing teams, including those at Yorktown High School, Wakefield High School, Thomas Jefferson High School, the University of Virginia, and George Washington University.
Each spring, nearly 100 students row for W-L’s boys and girls teams, continuing a tradition of excellence and inclusion.
To learn more, visit: w-lcrewboosters.org.