STANFORD, Calif. – Craig Amerkhanian , Stanford's Farwell Family Director of Men's Rowing, has announced his retirement, effective immediately, following 19 seasons at the helm of the program.

"I feel extremely fortunate to have worked with so many dedicated student-athletes during my tenure," said Amerkhanian. "I will especially cherish the relationships I have built and the strong culture of alumni support which eventually became synonymous with our program. With that said, at this time I must step away for personal reasons."

"I appreciate Craig's contributions over the last 19 years and wish him the best," said Jaquish & Kenninger Director of Athletics Bernard Muir . "Craig established a foundation of hard work within his program while also prioritizing success in the classroom."

Tabbed the school's first Farwell Family Director of Men's Rowing in August 2018, Amerkhanian steps down after a 19-year career on The Farm. Under Amerkhanian's tutelage, Stanford's Varsity Eight produced six top-10 finishes – including a third-place effort in 2009 – while four other boats captured IRA national titles.

Last season, Stanford was honored with 22 Pac-12 All-Academic selections, the most in the conference for the second straight year. The Cardinal also placed 10 student-athletes on the 2018 IRA All-Academic team, recognizing academic achievement among IRA member programs annually.