FAIRFIELD, Conn. – The Fairfield University rowing program lost a member of its family with the passing of former women's rowing assistant Matthew Labine. Labine served as an assistant coach for three years, helping develop many novice rowers into competitive varsity competitors.

                "Since I've known him, he has often been considered a gentle giant taking great care of his athletes as they immerse themselves in rowing for the first time, whether that was with his time coaching at Norwalk River Rowing Association or his three years at Fairfield University," Director of Rowing David Patterson said. "His greatest success for us was his work with the varsity four crew which included an experienced freshman coxswain, an experienced junior stroke seat and three novice freshmen.  One of the freshmen started the sport in September while two freshmen started rowing in January which helped make up the rest of the crew that dominated the MAAC championship final in 2016."

                As a rower, Labine competed with the Yale varsity eights, a group which achieved so many great victories between 1979 and 1981. In the boat, he was a fierce competitor who went on to represent the USA at the 1981 World Championships winning a bronze medal in the eight. 

               Beyond the world of rowing Labine was also an Emmy award winning soap opera writer, including scripts for General Hospital.

                "I simply enjoyed time and conversations with Matt," Patterson said. "Our heartfelt condolences go out to Matt's bride Catharine, son Michael and daughter Ann and all his relatives at this sad time."