Pete Cathey joined the Exeter community as the head coach of the girls crew program in the spring of 2024. In 2025, he was elevated to the Director of Rowing where he manages all aspects of the boys and girls crew program. In his role, Cathey also coordinates athletic rentals for the department.Â
Cathey arrived to the Saltonstall Boathouse after spending 20 years as the head rowing coach at the University of New Hampshire. During his tenure, the Wildcat crews claimed titles in both heavyweight and lightweight divisions at the New England Championships and the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Regatta. UNH accounted for thirty medals during his tenure while Cathey was twice honored as Coach of the Year from the New England’s and the ECAC.
Cathey also serves as a coach at the Northeast Rowing Center where he is the onsite functional mobility coach and an on-the-water coach.
Cathey’s rowing career began at Brown University, where he won the Varisty Challenge Cup at the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA) Regatta and competed internationally at the historic Henley Royal Regatta. He also got his coaching career started as an intern for the Bears, where he led a four to a bronze medal at the IRA Regatta.
Cathey is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and a Certified Functional Strength Coach (CFSC) through Mike Boyle’s nationally recognized Strength and Conditioning program for high school, college, professional and master’s athletes.
Cathey continues to enjoy rowing and training, and he also enjoys skiing, hiking, and camping.
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