The Canisius College rowing team signed Taylor de Moree to a National Letter of Intent for the 2013-14 season, as announced by head coach Joel Furtek.

"As a staff and team we are delighted to have Taylor join the Griffs' crew," said Furtek. "On her visit to Canisius and the Fontana Boathouse, she embraced the quirky, committed, and awesome women of this team."

A native of Guilderland, N.Y., de Moree currently competes for the Albany Rowing Center. At last year's New York State Championship, as she stroked her Novice Four to a come-from-behind victory. In addition, she raced at the prestigious 2012 Head of The Charles in front of 250,000 spectators.

"In her short high school career, she has already shown the racing success that we love to see," stated Furtek. "Combined with her size, athleticism, and potential for speed, this makes Taylor a great fit for Canisius."

"I chose Canisius because it was the most diverse team I had ever met, but it still felt like a family," said de Moree. "They seem to strive to be the best they can be, but still have fun while doing it. I found myself wanting to be a Griff right away."

The Golden Griffins continue to build their program with the signing of seven combined rowers for this season's campaign. In addition to the signing of Jordan Bamrick, Nora Kennon, Hannah Blum, and Corrine Kickel, the Griffs welcomed three junior transfers from the University of Central Florida, including Lizabeth McKinney, Meghan Martin, and Lynna Paradiso.

"Last year's early signee rower, Corrine Kickel, dedicated herself to improving all year and came in to Canisius at the top of her game, and we expect the same from Taylor.  She is already on the road to constant self-improvement.  We can't wait for her to join us!

"I'm also delighted with the strength of the spring recruiting class that we are building to join Taylor," explained Furtek. "As our program matures and races at higher and higher levels, more women are seeing the potential for great speed to go with the amazing education and awesome team experience that we offer here at Canisius."