Understanding Men's University Rowing in the United States

Men’s rowing at the collegiate level is inherently confusing. Unlike women’s rowing—which is an NCAA-governed sport (except lightweight) and follows a single, standardized structure—men’s rowing operates under two separate governing bodies: the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA) and the American Collegiate Rowing Association (ACRA).

This unusual setup exists largely because rowing is the oldest intercollegiate sport in the United States, with programs and traditions that long predate the NCAA. As a result, men’s rowing developed along a different path than most modern college sports.

For prospective recruits, understanding the difference between the IRA and ACRA—and what opportunities exist at schools affiliated with each—is essential. While the full history and structure could easily fill a short book, this article is intended to give you a clear foundation so you can better evaluate which collegiate rowing environment might be the right fit for you.

The Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA)
The IRA represents the highest level of varsity men's rowing in the U.S. and includes roughly 60 programs across several competitive categories:

• Division I Heavyweight Men (around 40 programs)
• Division I Lightweight Men (around 12 programs)
• Division III Men (around 22 programs)
• Women's Lightweight Programs (around 9 programs)

Despite the "Division" labels, it's important to note that the IRA is not goverened by the NCAA. However, it follows many of the same bylaws and rules set by the NCAA. In practice, this means that many of the same procedures are followed including recruiting shutdown periods, prohibited drugs list, and in-season compliance rules to name a few. To put this in perspective, you must register with the NCAA Eligibility Center in order to be eligible to compete.

Key characteristics of IRA programs:

• Varsity status
• Significant time commitment (often year-round)
• Higher training volume and performance expectations
• Recruiting is coach-driven and often highly competitive
• Some programs (especially heavyweights and lightweights) may offer institutional or need-based aid, but athletic scholarships are rare on the men’s side

The American Collegiate Rowing Association (ACRA)
ACRA governs the club rowing landscape, which includes 152 programs across all different regions of the United States—many of which train, race, and travel at an extremely high level.

Key characteristics of ACRA programs:

• Club teams (not varsity)
• Student-run or student-led, with coaching support
• Funded through a mix of dues, fundraising, and school support
• Less restrictive in terms of roster size and recruiting rules

While ACRA teams do not carry varsity designation, many are highly competitive and race at a national championship each year. For some athletes, especially those who develop later or prioritize academics, ACRA programs can offer an excellent collegiate rowing experience with more flexibility.

Which Path Is Right for You?
There is no universally “better” option between IRA and ACRA—only what fits your goals, development timeline, academic priorities, and financial situation.

In general:

• IRA programs may be a better fit for athletes seeking a varsity environment, structured recruiting, and maximum competitive intensity.
• ACRA programs can be ideal for athletes who want high-level rowing with more autonomy, balance, and access to a broader range of schools.

Understanding these distinctions early is essential, as the recruiting process for many rowers can start 2-3 years before graduating. Targeting the right programs, asking better questions during recruiting conversations, and ultimately choosing a college rowing experience that aligns with your long-term goals—will pay off tremendously.

Get Recruited
If you would like to learn what pathway makes the most sense for you and how to receive guidance through the process, reach out to Smarthlete through the evaluation form.

Otherwise, you can find more rowing specific information here as well as our other blog articles on college athletics here.