Will Shaffer

Help me make a difference in our community while becoming a better rower!

Why you should support me

Rowing is the first sport that I have competed in. I started rowing at the age of 26 during the first
year of my PhD. I remember it well – it was right after the COVID lockdown, and I was searching
for a way to improve my fitness and health and for an activity to force me away from my desk. I was a grossly overweight graduate student who probably went weeks without seeing an ounce of sunlight. Today, I am in the best shape I have ever been in, and I have enjoyed some of the
most fantastic sunrises and sunsets that I have ever seen in my life. Rowing gave me a purpose outside of work – something I could look forward to every day. The camaraderie I enjoy with my fellow crewmates not only inspires my work in the office but inspires me to improve myself every day on and off the water. I would never have dreamed of competing at the age of 30 nor would I have ever thought that I would be a coach to high schoolers, but here I am now doing both and medaling! Life sure has a funny way of twisting and turning in unexpected journeys. Speaking of unexpected journeys, I am sad to be leaving the KSU Crew and my coaching position with MJC
after I graduate; but, I am excited to be moving to a place in Australia where I can continue to hone my craft and compete! Rowing changed my life, and it is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life! Help me help our team and our local community!

How to Participate

To make a donation via Paypal, debit, or credit card, click the button below, and follow these instructions:

  1. on the first page, enter the amount you’d like to give
  2. underneath your donation amount, please select “KSU” from the drop down menu labeled “use this donation for…”
  3. on the second page, click “+ write a note (optional)” and type “Will Shaffer” in the text box so I’ll get your support!
  4. in addition to my name, enter the number of meters you think the whole team will row during our “hour of power” on October 19–the person who guesses the closest gets a prize!