BUFFALO, N.Y. – D'Youville University is proud to announce the hiring of Mike Taraboletti as the next head coach of its women's rowing program. A Western New York native with collegiate coaching experience and a lifelong passion for the sport, Taraboletti brings energy, leadership, and a commitment to student-athlete development as he takes the helm of the Saints.

"We are thrilled to have Coach Taraboletti on board to lead our rowing program," said Ona Halladay, Vice President for Athletics and Planning. "Rowing has a rich history at D'Youville University. I am confident that with Mike's passion, experience, and leadership, our rowing history and tradition will continue and grow even stronger."
 
"Being named the D'Youville University rowing coach is a role that means a lot to me," Taraboletti said. "It's an amazing opportunity and privilege to hold. I get to be a part of an environment with strong collegiate support, solid athletic potential, and amazing values that I intend to continue. I'm excited to begin this next chapter at D'Youville. Go Saints!"

Taraboletti joins D'Youville after serving as an assistant men's rowing coach and recruiting coordinator at Bates College, where he coached at the collegiate level, supervised athletes on and off the water, facilitated strength and conditioning training, and oversaw equipment and shell maintenance. He was also heavily involved in the recruiting process, connecting with prospective student-athletes nationwide.

Locally, Taraboletti has been a rowing coach with the Buffalo Scholastic Rowing Association and previously served as a co-assistant student rowing coach at SUNY Geneseo, his alma mater. In both roles, he emphasized technical development, teamwork, and safety, while fostering a positive and competitive culture.

A graduate of SUNY Geneseo, Taraboletti earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology with a focus on Environmental Science. While at Geneseo, he rowed for the club program, serving as team captain, and competed for several years with the West Side Rowing Club and Saint Joseph's Collegiate Institute Rowing program.

Beyond rowing, Taraboletti's professional experience includes roles in environmental education, logistics planning, and wildlife conservation, giving him a unique perspective on leadership, communication, and team building. He also holds multiple certifications, including Red Cross CPR/First Aid, New York Boater's Licesne, Level 1 Kayaking Instructor, and Certified Interpretive Guide.