Coach Bios

Jenn Jewett, Head Coach

Jenn began her rowing career at the University of Kansas in 1987. She was a member of the KU Crew for two years prior to graduating with a degree in Journalism.

After an invitation to USRowing’s Pre-Elite Camp and a medal performance at the 1990 US Olympic Festival, Jenn went on to row at the Cincinnati Rowing Center, a National Team Training Center. While training in Cincinnati she also coached Cincinnati’s Junior Women’s Rowing Team.

Jenn spent a year and a half training in Philadelphia and Washington, DC, where she earned a spot on the 1994 US World Championship team. After participating in two Olympic Trials (’92 and ’96), and several international competitions, as well as US National Championships, she brings a great deal of rowing experience to KCRC. She began coaching at KCRC in 1996 with the beginning of the Juniors Program. Jenn is a Kansas City, Kansas, firefighter when she is not on the water.

Sharon Johnson, Assistant Coach - Masters

Sharon joined Kansas City Rowing Club in the spring of 2003. She learned to row in a clinic offered by KCRC that year. Since then, she has attained a USRowing Level II Coaching Certification. Sharon currently is a master’s coach for KCRC and coaches our new novice rowers through the clinics we offer throughout the year.

In addition to coaching, Sharon has successfully participated in many regattas in the Great Plains and Midwest area, doing both sprint and head races. She also has a certification in spinning and works on the fitness staff at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Kansas City. When not rowing, Sharon works as a Program Manager for IBM.

Kenny Rodricks, Assistant Coach - Juniors

John Kenny Rodricks started rowing with the Kansas City Rowing Club in 2003 and learned to row in a clinic lead by head coach Jenn Jewett. He is currently the assistant coach for junior rowers for KCRC.

A graduate of Rockhurst University, he has worked directly in the community for many years, not only with KCRC, but also with Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City. He is employed by the YMCA of Greater Kansas City in the Children and Family Services division. A strong advocate for the youth of our community, he believes in athleticism, character, and scholarship.