TSS First VII revealed as school aims to go back to back

After taking out the Head of the River last year, some new names are hoping to help TSS go back to back.

AFTER taking out last year’s Head of the River, some fresh rowing talent is hoping to propel TSS to the same lofty heights in 2019.

With the first regatta less than a week away, two talented Year 11s are set to row above their years and secure their spots in this year’s First VIII.

Both Lachie Wright and Mackenzie Branch took out gold at the 2018 Queensland State Championships and coach Duncan Free believes they’re part of TSS’s next generation.

“They’re both very talented and will bring value to the team this year and also again next year,” he said.

“Mackenzie was the fastest sculler out of all the Year 11s and 12s so he has a lot to offer.”

While Wright and Branch will hold down seats two and three, they are set to be led by Harrison French in stroke seat.

“He’s our captain of the boats this year so he has great leadership qualities around the shed and within the crew,” Free said.

READ MORE: INCREDIBLE ROWNING RECORD OF TSS

The Southport School rowing crew of Zac Botsman, Max Cossill, Harrison French (stroke) and Josh Hobart.

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“We trust him to set a good rhythm over the 2km and also have the courage to stick to our race plan.”

The First VIII squad is also set to feature Josh Hobart, whose father Craig made the TSS First VIII in the 1980s.

Though some spots are locked in, Free is struggling to decide on his initial line up for this Saturday’s home regatta.

“We have some strong, fit boys who are pushing for selection,” he said.

“Anyone who’s in the first eight is talented and there are also some guys who miss out who are very talented.”

The Southport School rowing crew.

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Despite lifting up the cup last year, Free plans to move on quickly and set his sights on back to back wins.

“Coming off a win last year, we’re hoping for another good performance this year,” he said.

“I’ll keep my expectations high like I have the past few years.

“We need eight guys willing to put their life on the line for each other and a desire to do it for themselves and also their teammates.”

Whoever earns their place in the First VIII will be immediately inducted into TSS’s rich sporting history.

Since 1918, the oldest school boatshed in the country has been named Head of the River champions 21 times.

“They’re always proud to be in the first eight and are honoured to be there,” Free said.

“They do it because they want to make the school and themselves proud.”

TSS will host the first GPS regatta this Saturday at the Wyaralong Rowing Centre.