The Wichita State University Rowing program is in search of a new home along the river.

Because of damage sustained during the severe hail storm this summer to some facilities, BG Products Inc. will no longer be able to provide boathouse facilities to Shocker Rowing, effective Dec. 31. BG's maintenance operations facility was damaged and will need to move to the space currently occupied by Shocker Rowing.

This ends an eight-year arrangement in which BG has provided a home for Shocker Rowing with river access and facilities.

"It's unfortunate that we will no longer be able to use these facilities, but the support BG has shown Shocker Rowing during the past eight years has been tremendous," said Calvin Cupp, head crew coach. "In 2001, BG stepped forward during a transitional time for Shocker Rowing and provided warehouse space for equipment storage and river access."

In 2006, BG moved Shocker Rowing to the current BG Products Boathouse at 300 W. Indianapolis. This facility included shell storage for the entire fleet of shells for both Shocker Rowing and the Wichita Rowing Association, kitchenette, restrooms with showers, lobby and meeting area. This boathouse also was the base of operations for all WSU home spring races.

WSU is in the process of pursuing several promising options that will meet both the immediate short-term and long-term needs of Shocker Rowing and the rowing community as a whole.

Shocker Rowing has a roster of 47 student-athletes this fall. Earlier in spring, four of five crews made the grand finals at the ACRA (American Collegiate Rowing Association) national championships.

Shocker Rowing hosts three or four home regattas each year.

Shocker Rowing is a supporting group to the Wichita Frostbite Regatta that brought about 800 rowers from several states to Wichita in November.