Meet Our Staff
Our coaches bring the technical proficiency and passion necessary to foster growth in our youth athletes. From absolute beginners to varsity competitors, our staff is dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and competitive environment where rowers can thrive both on and off the water.
Shelby Kislowski
shelby.kislowski@shencrewadmin.com
518-391-3132
Team Head Coach, Varsity Boys CoachShelby Kislowski is the Head Coach of Shenendehowa Rowing, bringing extensive experience as both a competitive rower and a dedicated coach. She rowed for six years with Burnt Hills Rowing Association and competed at the Division I level for Marist University. Shelby also served as Head Modified Rowing Coach at Burnt Hills, where her athletes earned a state title under her leadership.
In addition to leading Shenendehowa’s crew team, Shelby also serves as Co-Head Coach of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s crew program, demonstrating a strong commitment to developing athletes at every level.
Shelby holds a Master of Science in Environmental Studies and Environmental Education, complemented by a background in project management, communications, and organizational leadership. This unique blend of skills informs her coaching approach and fuels her dedication to growing and strengthening the Shenendehowa Rowing Program.
Varsity Girls CoachLayne McDonald
layne.mcdonald@shencrewadmin.com
518-723-3488
Layne joined Shen Rowing as a coach for the learn-to-row program in 2024. As Shen Rowing alum, she began rowing in 2014 and went on to compete at the Division I level for Iona University graduating in 2025.
Layne holds a bachelor’s degree in biology with a concentration in ecology and environmental science, reflecting her passion for understanding and protecting the natural world. As the freshman girls coach, she is excited to share her experience, build strong fundamentals, and help athletes grow both on and off the water.
Outside of rowing, Layne enjoys spending time outdoors, whether that’s hiking, being on the water, or exploring nature.
Ella joined Shen Rowing in 2022 as a summer learn-to-row coach. She is a Shen rowing alum, she began rowing in 2018 and went on to compete at the Division I level at The University of Kansas graduating in 2026. Ella holds a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in education. Ella is currently enrolled at the University at Albany in both the history and information science masters programs. As an assistant varsity coach, Ella uses her education background to fit the needs of all rowers and create a space that makes them feel confident.
Outside of rowing, Ella enjoys exploring the outdoors with her fiancé and spending time with her two cats and dog.
Assistant Varsity Team CoachElla Parisi
Modified Head CoachMaria Shorkey
maria.shorkey@shencrewadmin.com
518-309-2057
Maria began coaching for the Shenendehowa modified program in 2016 following her graduation from BHBL High, where she rowed for 6 years.
Since then, she has been studying and working in the field of graphic design; and has coached modified, varsity and masters programs on both the Mohawk River at home and Meadow Lake in New York City.
Though she spends most her time farming and honing her craft, she can't be kept away from the water long, and often enjoys rowing with the BHRA Master's team.
Dylan joined Shen Rowing in 2026 as a coach for the modified program.
Dylan is a Shen Rowing Alum himself, having graduated in 2025 after rowing in both the modified and varsity programs.
Modified Assistant CoachDylan Garrant
Coach Dave was the head coach at SGS Rowing for a 12 years. Prior to coaching at SGS, Coach Dave coached at Schenectady, Niskayuna, and Aqueduct Rowing. He has 20+ years of coaching experience and 40+ years of rowing experience going back to the days of wooden boats and wooden oars.
Coach Dave continues to row his single and club boats with Aqueduct Rowing Club. When he isn’t rowing or coaching rowing he takes out his sailing vessel Lady Bug and is an equally accomplished sailor. Coach Dave is a retired Mechanical Engineer
BoatmanDavid Clayman
Interested in joining our coaching staff?
We are always looking for talented and passionate coaches to join our team! Please fill out the interest form below.
We provide rowing training and competition opportunities to more than 40 youth rowers attending the Shenendehowa School District, which is one of the largest in the state. We are located 20 minutes south from Fish Creek in Saratoga. We can offer you competitive pay, training and a fun working environment.
We also run several camps during the summer which are an excellent way for high school rowers to begin their coaching career and build their coaching resume. Contact us for more information!