ITHACA, N.Y. -- Olympic medalist Steve Coppola has been named The Staley Head Coach of Women's Rowing at Cornell University it was announced today by Andy Noel, The Meakem*Smith Director of Athletics and Physical Education. Coppola joins the Big Red after seven seasons of sustained success as an assistant at his alma mater, Princeton.

"I'm energized by the excitement and enthusiasm that everyone at Cornell has for the Women's Rowing team," Coppola said. "I want to thank Andy Noel and Anita Brenner for placing their trust in me to lead this group of strong women. I am looking forward to a great future with Cornell."

Coppola was an integral member in building the depth in the Princeton rowing program, which helped the Tigers win five of the last seven Ivy League championships while continuing to be one of the top programs at the NCAA Championships - qualifying for nationals each year with six top 10 team finishes. He had a hand in all aspects of the program, particularly in recruiting and skill development.

The varsity eight and second varsity eight went on the win the 2016 Women's Henley Regatta. In 2019, the varsity eight reached the NCAA grand final for the first time since 2013 and placed fifth overall.
 
Coppola led one of the greatest Princeton heavyweight boats in program history to the 2006 EARC/Ivy League title and a silver medal at the IRA national championships.

Following his collegiate career, Coppola embarked on an impressive international rowing career, culminating in a spot on the men's eight at the 2008 Summer Olympics. He helped the United States to a bronze medal at the Beijing Games. Coppola rowed the men's eight to a world title in 2005 in Gifu, Japan as well as a pair of bronze medals (men's 4+ in Spain in 2004 and the men's 8+ in England in 2006). He has medaled in numerous national and international competitions, from the Charles River to Henley on the Thames.

A native of Buffalo, N.Y., Coppola graduated from Princeton in 2006 with a degree in Psychology.