New league initiative marks the start of “RIVERSPORT 2.0” and the organization’s transition to its new Champion Mark

OKLAHOMA CITY (September 21, 2026) — RIVERSPORT Foundation has received a $1 million grant from Inasmuch Foundation to launch the Varsity Rowing League brought to you by Inasmuch, an effort to bring competitive rowing to Oklahoma high schools and expand access to youth sports.

 

The league is scheduled to begin in fall 2027 and will be offered at no cost to participating schools during its first two years, allowing programs to launch and grow without financial barriers.

 

The announcement also marks the beginning of what RIVERSPORT is calling “RIVERSPORT 2.0,” a new era focused on growing access, developing athletes and building stronger community connections through sport. As part of that evolution, RIVERSPORT is transitioning to its new Champion Mark as the organization’s primary logo, symbolizing the competitive spirit, resilience and opportunity at the center of its mission.

 

“This investment from Inasmuch is a catalyst for long-term impact,” said Chris Sorensen, executive director of RIVERSPORT Foundation. “We are building a pipeline that connects students to sport, education and opportunity while strengthening communities across Oklahoma. The launch of this league and the rollout of our Champion Mark represent the next chapter for RIVERSPORT and our commitment to creating opportunities for athletes at every level.”

 

The league will feature boys and girls teams from participating schools, with student-athletes training both on campus and at RIVERSPORT facilities. The season will include biweekly races, a state championship event and a training model that combines indoor rowing with on-water practices. RIVERSPORT will provide coaching, equipment and race coordination.

 

The program will follow a phased funding model, with full funding in years one and two, partial funding in year three and four and full financial independence by year five. Organizers expect five to six schools to participate in the first year, with plans to expand annually and increase youth rowing participation by 25% over four years.

The league is also designed to create a pathway to higher levels of competition. Participants may advance to RIVERSPORT’s Junior Crew program, where many athletes go on to earn athletic scholarships, and typically 50% of graduating seniors continue their rowing careers at Division I or Ivy League universities.

Schools interested in participating in the Varsity Rowing League brought to you by Inasmuch are encouraged to contact RIVERSPORT at mborger@riversportokc.org for additional information about program requirements, timelines and launch details.

 

“This partnership reflects a shared vision for expanding access to opportunity,” said Robert J. Ross, President and CEO of Inasmuch Foundation. “We believe this league will create lasting impact for students, schools and Riversport OKC.”