Hadley, Mass. — The NESCAC announced its 2026 Rowing All-Conference awards yesterday, with Colby College seniors Eliza Nilson and Jack Childress both receiving Second Team honors.

On the women's side, Eliza Nilson capped off a standout career by earning her second All-NESCAC selection. Nilson, who was also named to the Second Team in 2024, has been a vital leader within the Mules' First Varsity Eight. Her veteran presence helped guide the 1V8 to a resilient victory in the petite final at the New England Rowing Championships earlier this month and a strong showing at the NIRC/NESCAC Championships this past weekend. The standout moment for the women's team was grabbing the Jennifer McLaughlin Cup in the spring opener. 

On the men's side, Jack Childress earned his first career All-NESCAC recognition following a season that has seen the Mules climb as high as No. 6 in the national rankings. Childress has been an anchor for the 1V8 boat that reached the Grand Finals at the New England Rowing Championships and proved to be one of the fastest crews in the region.

While Nilson concludes her decorated career with the Mules, Childress and the Men's Crew program have more racing ahead. For the second consecutive season, the Mules have qualified for the IRA National Championship Regatta. Childress will lead the Mules onto collegiate rowing's biggest stage at Lake Natoma in Gold River, California, with the Division III races scheduled for May 29-30.  

The All-Conference teams are comprised of individuals from the first and second varsity boats at each institution. Nilson and Childress join an elite group of Colby rowers recognized for their speed, leadership, and contribution to the program's sustained success.

CLICK HERE for the full NESCAC Women's Rowing Awards Release 5/14

CLICK HERE for the full NESCAC Men's Rowing Awards Release 5/14