Chris Williams 

Girls Coach​​​​​​​

Chris joined Whangarei Rowing Club as a master rower over 15 years ago, where he competed for several years, he then was asked to do some coaching of a club men’s crew which went on to win a bronze medal at the 2016 NZ rowing champs and made four A finals at this regatta.

From the end of this season there was a need for some coaching of the junior girls, so Chris put his hand up and has been coaching the junior girls ever since.

His enjoyment in rowing comes from seeing the girls develop life skills which takes them onto adult life, the friendships that they develop and the hard work they put into their training.

Chris McAsey

Boys Coach 

Chris started rowing at age 13 and went on to represent NZ at U19,U23, and then senior level. The pinnacle of his rowing career was a silver medal at the ‘95 World Champs in Finland. The following year Chris was a travelling reserve for the Olympic team in Atlanta.

After a couple of years away from competitive sport he found a love for sailing, and was then recruited to join Team New Zealand for three successive America’s Cup campaigns.

After 25 years away from Rowing Chris was lured back to the river when his two daughters both found a love for the sport. He is now coaching the boys squad and is enjoying giving back to the sport that taught him so much.

Isabella Hunter-Willetts

Novice Girls Assistant Coach

Hi i’m Issie, I volunteer along side Chris coaching the novice girls for the Whangārei Rowing Club. I’ve been rowing with the club for around five years, and this is my second time coaching the novices. I’m passionate about introducing youth to this incredible sport! I’m really excited to watch how they develop their skills and grow stronger over the season.

Currently, I’m in my second year of a Bachelor of Sport and Recreation programme through NorthTec/AUT. In the future I see myself teaching at a Highschool in the sport and health sector while continuing coaching junior rowing.