NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Mike Gennaro, the Craig W. Johnson '68 Head Coach of Heavyweight Crew, has announced that Ben Heathcote has been elected captain of the Yale Heavyweight Crew for the 2025-26 season. Heathcote becomes the 171st captain in the storied history of Yale Heavyweight Crew, one of the most tradition-rich programs in collegiate rowing.

"It is an honor to announce that Ben has been chosen to lead our team next season," said Gennaro. "Ben consistently demonstrates the hallmarks of great leadership—resilience, accountability, and presence. His tireless work ethic and composed, charismatic demeanor make him someone others naturally follow. I have no doubt that his leadership, along with the unity and strength of his senior class, will be a driving force for our program in the coming year."

Heathcote, a Molecular Biophysics & Biochemistry major from London, England, is not only an accomplished student-athlete but also an active member of the Yale Undergraduate Diversified Investments organization, reflecting his leadership beyond the boathouse.

"I'm thankful to my teammates for placing their trust in me," said Heathcote. "This team existed long before us and will endure long after us—it's far greater than the sum of its parts. Carrying forward its legacy is both a privilege and a responsibility I don't take lightly. To return this program to where it belongs, we must fully commit to our mission. I'm incredibly fortunate to lead alongside classmates whose passion, grit, and determination inspire me daily. Their hunger for success and drive for redemption will shape everything we do next season. This campaign is pivotal—and we're ready."