Tom Mannle has received the Julian Wolf Award. This award pays tribute to the one rowing official in the USA that stood apart from the rest in his/her contribution to rowing in the past year. It is based upon one, several, or all of the following: outstanding performance, dedication, heroic acts or outstanding contributions to officiating. The winner is selected by past five Wolf award winners.
Tom Mannle began his involvement in the rowing community as his daughter began rowing in high school. He began as a volunteer for local regattas in the Washington, D.C. area and in club administration, "much to my daughter's embarrassment." Mannle became an assistant referee in 1999 and completed his license in 2001. "I am humbled by the award and by the fact that it came from the coaches on the Charles. I was touched [by this nomination] as none of us do this for that recognition," said Mannle.
Mannle closes all of his emails with the phrase, "smooth water." While the conditions do not always deliver, Mannle goes above and beyond to ensure race day goes smoothly. He coordinates the careful execution of racing for collegiate programs, across seven institutions, on one of the most challenging rowing venues in the country. Each weekend, racing commences from 7 a.m. until noon, on eight-minute centers, with any number of the 17 local programs hosting up to four visiting teams. With a steady hand and a great sense of humor, Mannle skillfully organizes schedules, officials, finish-line staff, video, timing, and results, alleviating the burden on coaches. Read More