Kudos For Kamrad

ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFKnights.com) - After capturing its seventh-straight Robin Yeuell Trophy at the 37th Annual Metro Cup last Saturday, the UCF rowing team honored the founder of UCF Rowing and former head coach Dennis Kamrad with a boat dedication.
 
Kamrad began his coaching career at UCF in 1973 managing the rowing club, and then later led the Knights at the varsity level until his retirement in 2003.
 
Not only was Kamrad instrumental to rowing at UCF, but statewide. He rowed at Rollins and founded rowing at Edgewater and UCF. He also put together the series of races that make up the Metro Cup. He is also part of the Rotary Club of Orange County East, who sponsors the race.
 
Current head coach Becky Cramer said that honoring Kamrad at the Metro Cup was important because of its significance to him.
 
"I couldn't think of a better day and a better boat to honor him with," said Cramer. "He is bringing rowing to as many people as he can, and is giving people the opportunity to be able to have that experience."
 
When accepting the honor, Kamrad joked: "Thank you for winning today."
 
He also revealed that he is still close with rowing alumnae, and emphasized how important they are to him.
 
"The students made the teacher, and the athletes made the coach," said Kamrad. "I was fortunately enough to have such wonderful people that could pick up after me, help me and guide me. Those students are still helping me, still guiding me and are still a part of my life."
 
Kamrad expressed his gratitude and, after 50 years of coaching, said that he was in debt to everyone that has made even the smallest impact in his life.
 
"Look at today," said Kamrad. "Today is life. I am so grateful for this part of my life."