How Furry Friends Bring a Different Vibe to MSU Rowing Practice

A new sound has filled the air at the Michigan State women's rowing team practice on the Grand River. No, it is not the sound of a boat motor or oars splashing in the water.

It's barking.

Head coach Stacey Rippetoe declared practice as a dog-friendly zone, meaning, there is always at least one dog at practice. Sometimes, there can be as many as four. Rippetoe's shepherd mix Quincy and lab mix Nova are regular visitors. Assistant coach Kayla Brock's lab mix Kooper is also a frequent visitor at practice.

The dogs provide support and their frequent visits have become important to the team's daily routine.

"The dog's main job is to provide and spread joy to the athletes," said Assistant Coach Nicole Marek. "There are many benefits to having dogs and animals around."

Animals have the powerful ability to distract humans from whatever stresses are going on currently in their lives and the dogs are active throughout practice, hence the nickname, 'Spartan Canine Coaches'. Marek's American lab Charlie likes to explore the area and rides in the coaches' boat.

"During practice, Charlie will sit with me while Cooper and Quincy walk around the launches," Marek said.

Occasionally, Michigan State Women's Soccer assistant Megan Link will bring her Shiba Inu, Jax, to join in on the fun. Even though the water is cold, the dogs just can't help but jump in for a swim in the Grand River.

"One of the first days we came outside, there was a green film on the water, and the dogs thought it was grass," said Marek. "Jax jumped in followed by Charlie and Quincy and we were like, 'what is happening?'"

Each dog has a different impact on the team. Some are more loving, while others provide the energy to the team on the water.

"If I need a fun dog, it's Charlie. If I need a calmer dog, then I would go with Cooper. If I need companionship, then it's Quincy because he is always climbing on us and giving hugs. It just depends on the day," said Stauffer.

Charlie, Quincy, Cooper, and Nova have helped the rowers balance their mental health while competing at the collegiate level. Whether it is performing tricks or the zoomies, these dogs know how to make a day better.

"When they are running in circles or they are playing together everyone laughs and it is a good distraction from anything bad happening whether it is at practice, school, or our personal lives," said Stauffer. "I almost have better time management because I want to get to practice early to pet the dogs."

The dogs all get along and are also known for bringing the team together. They have not only brought the rowers closer to each other, but they have also brought the rowers closer to the coaching staff.

"The coaches are always with their dogs, so when I pet a dog I usually talk with them about practice and other things," said senior rower Avery Rugg. "It helps them get to know us as people better because we talk about our days and plans."

These conversations have allowed new bonds to be created between the coaches and rowers.

"Having the candid conversations instead of always talking about our sport is hugely important for bonding with our coaches," said Stauffer.

The dogs are spoiled with Pup-Peroni and Beggin' Strips throughout practice while they get to enjoy the outdoors almost every day.

"Our dogs have the best jobs in the world," added Marek. "How many other dogs get to come to work with their humans and hang out near the water on boats and play with other dogs on a regular basis?"

The dogs have an Instagram page, @spartank9coaches, featuring them in their element.

"We were at practice one day and we kept getting many really good pictures of the dogs and coach Rippetoe said we need the spartan canine coaches and we need an Instagram page," said Marek, the account moderator.

Each Spartan Canine Coach is different, but they all support the team as they practice for competitions and go through their daily lives.

"They are our entire team's emotional support dogs," says Stauffer.

Gallery: (7-19-2024) Spartan Canine Coaches Dogs

How Furry Friends Bring a Different Vibe to MSU Rowing Practice

Players Mentioned

Avery Rugg

Related Videos