Iowa City Today

Emma Dabinett has been promoted to assistant coach of the University of Iowa women’s rowing team, according to an announcement from head coach Jeff Garbutt. Dabinett previously served as a graduate assistant coach for the program last season.

“I am thrilled to be able to elevate Emma to full-time status,” said Garbutt. “She brings a wealth of knowledge from her time competing for Great Britain as a junior and U23 athlete. As a former Hawkeye rower, she understands what we are trying to do here at Iowa and will help elevate the program. In her new role as recruiting coordinator, she brings a ton of experience to the table and can tell her unique story on why Iowa is such a special place and opportunity to today and train in the USA. Go Hawks!”

Dabinett has participated in coaching development through the Academy of Future Coaches organized by the Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association (CRCA). She also works with Marlow Rowing Club in England, where she assists with summer camps focused on teaching rowing skills, water safety, and responsible conduct for new athletes.

As an athlete, Dabinett represented Great Britain at the U23 level and was recognized three times as First Team All-Big Ten during her collegiate career at Iowa. She also earned Academic All-Big Ten honors three times and was named a CRCA All-American in 2023. Throughout her four seasons with Iowa’s Varsity Eight boat, her squad received Big Ten Boat of the Week honors three times.

“I am so excited to remain apart of a program that gave me so much as an athlete and person," said Dabinett. "Elevating me to the level necessary to compete both collegiately and internationally. I am extremely grateful to have the opportunity to work alongside the same incredible coaches who helped me achieve my goals and can't wait to help the program continue to grow in my new role.”

Originally from Bracknell, England, Dabinett supports international recruiting efforts for Iowa’s rowing team. While studying at Iowa, she served as president of I-Hawks, a multicultural group dedicated to supporting international student-athletes transitioning into university life.

Dabinett completed her undergraduate studies at Iowa with a degree in Psychology and a minor in Criminology. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Sport and Recreation Management at the university.