The UniSport Australia Nationals is set to host a fierce coxed men’s four event. Universities from across the country will line up crews packed with national pedigree, rising stars, and proven medal-winning combinations. This event promises grit, power, and tight margins from the opening strokes to the sprint.
University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
UTS have entered two men’s fours at this year’s regatta, and this lineup looks to be their premier boat. Returning from last year’s gold-medal crew are M. Thompson, B. Smith, and cox S. Castellas, bringing the experience of having already conquered this stage. Added to the mix is M. Caponas, one of the standout performers of 2025 with three national titles and a silver across the week at Barrington. Thompson has also been in blistering form, collecting two national golds and a silver, including success in the U23 four, while Smith adds further quality with his own national gold and silver. Under the guidance of coaches S. Fennessy and M. Ungemach, Sydney’s top crew arrive as hot favourites and will be determined to defend their crown.
Adelaide University
The dark horses of the event, Adelaide, bring a blend of raw talent and proven results that could seriously disrupt the order. A. Williams headlines the crew with international experience, including a bronze medal at the U19 World Rowing Championships in the double in 2024, fresh from national titles in the U21 quad and a key role in Victoria’s victorious youth eight. Williams hopes to convert his proven speed into a spot on the podium. H. Allan and M. Henry add interstate race experience for South Australia, having contested the King’s Cup and Youth Eight, respectively. While E. Chipperfield has less national racing exposure, the boat looks set to rise to the occasion. With N. Tesch Ornelas steering from the coxswain’s seat, Adelaide have the firepower and momentum to not just medal, but to challenge UTS for the win.
Melbourne University
Melbourne arrive with a deep and balanced crew that could make a serious case for the podium. Leading the charge is J. Houghton, who collected gold in the U23 eight and bronze in the U23 four at nationals. C. White adds a silver medal, while lightweight powerhouse C. McClure has two silvers to his credit, bringing technical finesse to the boat. J. Forsyth rounds out a versatile and competitive crew, coxed by D. Schroder, who brings composure and tactical edge. While they may not have the star power of Sydney or the rising shine of Adelaide, Melbourne is a consistent performer and will no doubt be in the hunt when the race breaks open.
Newcastle University
Newcastle may not arrive with the same depth of national experience as some other contenders, but they have a standout in T. Stambolie. Fresh from claiming bronze within a Sydney University composite in the U21 eight and making an A-final appearance in the U21 four coxed four, Stambolie brings quality and recent big-race experience to the crew. He is joined by K. Martin, H. Nichols, and R. Furness, with K. Atherton in the coxswain’s seat. While the rest of the lineup has less pedigree on paper, Newcastle are a determined outfit who could surprise if they find rhythm and cohesion when it counts.
Predictions
UTS’s top crew come in as the clear favourites, with their gold-medal core and national champions stacked across the boat. Adelaide, with their mix of interstate experience and a star in Williams, are well placed to mount a serious challenge. Melbourne bring balance and consistency that should carry them into the medals, while Newcastle are likely to be chasing experience but cannot be underestimated. Expect a tight three-way fight at the front, with UTS the crew to beat, followed by Adelaide, then Melbourne.
