Kerry Shaffer is more than the head coach of the Atlantic County Institute of Technology’s (ACIT) rowing program; she is the driving force behind its growth and success. With a remarkable journey from a self-taught rower in Canada to a national champion and dedicated coach, Shaffer’s passion for rowing and commitment to her athletes make her an integral part of the ACIT community.
Kerry’s journey in rowing began in high school in Canada, where she initially trained herself due to the absence of a rowing program at her school. Determined to pursue her passion, she transferred to another high school that offered a 13th year to join their rowing team, enhancing her chances of earning a college scholarship.
Her dedication paid off, earning her a full ride to the University of Virginia, where she won an NCAA Championship in her first year. She then represented Canada on the under-23 national team and was part of the senior team from 2011 to 2016, securing three national championship titles, 2 PanAm golds, and a World Championship bronze medal for Canada and one National title for the United States.
Kerry’s coaching career began at the high school program she graduated from and extended to coaching a middle/high school team in Detroit. Upon moving to South Jersey, she joined the Brigantine Rowing Club and learned about the ACIT rowing coach position.
“Coach Shaffer taught me something invaluable during my four years on the team: When life knocks you down, get back up. I vividly remember a moment in my sophomore year during a scull drill where I flipped. But it was not just a fall; it was a lesson in resilience,” said one of Coach Shaffer’s senior athletes, Chris LaPorta. “Coach Shaffer showed me that failure is not the end; it’s a chance to learn and grow. Thanks to her, I’ve gained the courage to face challenges head-on, both in crew and in life.”
Starting the ACIT rowing program from scratch during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kerry, along with Coach Abigail Gragg, has seen remarkable progress and results. Through her rowing journey, she has embraced both the rewarding and challenging experiences to shape her coaching philosophy.
Kerry’s coaching approach focuses on building confidence, trust, and understanding among her athletes. She believes that anyone can excel in rowing, regardless of prior experience or body type, fostering an inclusive environment where athletes can thrive.
“Coach Shaffer’s coaching background, coupled with her elite-level rowing experience, brings invaluable insight to our crew team,” shared Dr. Robert Wagner, the ACIT Athletic Director. “Her exposure to top-tier coaching and international competition enhances our athletes’ development both mentally and physically.”
“I hope to inspire our kids to become confident, resilient, and happy both in and out of the sport,” said Kerry. “ACIT is about helping students find their place and feel welcomed, no matter what they decide to pursue. We have a very inviting culture here.”
One of Kerry’s most memorable moments as the ACIT coach was when she helped organize an ergatta (indoor rowing race), transforming the training space into a vibrant arena of competition and camaraderie. Families and friends cheered as athletes broke personal records and embraced teamwork in various relays.
“It was a defining moment,” Coach Kerry said. “The event helped showcase the athletes’ unity and the strength of the community.”
Under Kerry’s leadership, the ACIT rowing team is becoming increasingly competitive, participating in Philadelphia races. However, winning medals is just a part of the journey; the primary focus remains on helping these young athletes become good people.
ACIT is proud to have Kerry Shaffer as its rowing coach and looks forward to the continued growth and success of the program under her guidance.
About Atlantic County Institute of Technology
For over four decades, the Atlantic County Institute of Technology has been preparing students with the academic and technical skills needed to successfully enter the world of work or continue their education at the college level. ACIT is the most comprehensive technical education facility in Atlantic County, and it is the school of choice for a diverse student body, offering 19 career and technical education programs from which to choose. ACIT’s motto “Pursue What You Love,” encourages students to actively engage in their chosen academic pursuits and extracurricular activities, including various after-school clubs and athletic programs. In addition, 100’s of Atlantic County adult learners are enrolled in the Adult Education Program. Adult learners in the evening school participate in both full- and part-time technical programs.
For more information about ACIT, please visit www.acitech.org.
