SEATTLE (Feb. 1) -- Seattle Pacific University's women's novice four from last spring was voted the 2002 Crew of the Year for the Pacific Northwest Region of USRowing, along with world championship silver medalist Lisa Schenkler. The Falcons finished last season undefeated (12-0) after claiming conference, regional and national titles.

Seattle Pacific was among 10 nominees from the region and out-polled, among others, Washington's heavyweight eight (NCAA champions), the Husky freshman eight (IRA Champs). Schenkler tied for the award. The award was presented by The George Pocock Rowing Foundation and the Northwest Region of USRowing.

The SPU novice four consisted of coxswain Emily Thomas, stroke Sarah Zorn, No. 3 seat Shannon Buehler, No. 2 seat Heidi Visser and bow Andi Martineau. This coming season the same four rowers will likely comprise the varsity four lineup. Thomas will cox the men's varsity four.

The first spring regatta is the raptor Cup with Seattle University March 22 on the Ship Canal.