‘Shell & Oar Society’ Back after 30 Year Hiatus
“Black Tie” Affair to be Highlight of Fall Season’s Social Calendar

In accordance with the re-establishment of the USC Men’s Crew Program, members of the Trojan Navy have decided to bring back a big part of the USC Men’s Crew tradition, the Shell and Oar Society.

“The Shell and Oar Society was a group of USC women who were associated with the crew team through the rowers and supported the rowers on and off the water,” informs varsity coxswain Laura Foster. “These women came out and supported the team at regattas and threw parties to celebrate victories and battles well fought.”

Foster has taken the initiative in formalizing the ‘Shell & Oar Society’ in order to receive official recognition from the University. The senior coxswain has also invited each member of the crew to nominate female students for membership.

“This way, we will have a great group of girls that can add to the fun of the men’s crew program this year as well as in years to come,” said Foster.

“To start the season and the Shell and Oar Society, we are planning a ‘Kick off’ barbecue for the team to meet society members on Thursday, October 10. We will also be presenting the new recruits with their Betting Shirt on this occasion,” said Foster.

Working alongside Foster on the organizing committee is varsity coxswain Mako Schinderle and Event Co-ordinator Alissa Heideman.

Other events the committee is planning include a black tie Holiday Party on December 7, a trip to San Diego for the girls to support the team at the Crew Classic, and an end of season evening banquet for the crew, parents, alumni and friends on “Trojan Navy Day” after races against UCLA on May 3.

Crew co-captain Sean Miller says his team is truly appreciative of the efforts by USC’s female student body to support the crew. “Laura should be commended for bringing back the Shell & Oar Society,” said Miller. “Our boatspeed can only benefit from it.”