Our Team
World-class coaching expertise dedicated to nurturing the next generation of rowers.
CEO
Cathy Rooney
35 years coaching rowing. Former Director of Rowing at Headington School, Performance Development Coach at British Rowing, and Sport Development Manager at Sport England.
Lead Coach
Ellie Stevenson
Ellie returns to the North after seven years coaching in London at Latymer Upper School and Dulwich College, guiding groups from their first strokes to school Championship Eights. She learnt to row at Cambois Rowing Club and began coaching at Leeds Rowing Club during University, where she studied Education with a specialism in Special Educational Needs and learning outside the classroom. Having developed a Northern Junior High-Performance Academy while coaching at Durham University, Ellie has a passion for balancing technical development and going fast with fostering a long-lasting love for the sport.
Boatman & Coach
James Stevenson
James has been involved in rowing since the age of 11, starting at George Watson's College in Edinburgh. He rowed at Newcastle University, representing the Blue Star at BUCS, the European University Championships, the Head of the River Race and Henley Royal Regatta. He was selected to represent the GB Rowing Team in 2018 at the Under 23 World and European Championships. While in London, he rowed at Tideway Scullers School and Thames Rowing Club, winning the Wyfold Challenge Cup at Henley Royal Regatta in 2022. James joined Infinity Boat Club in January 2026, where he is passionate about helping rowers of all ages reach their potential.
School Liaison
Olivia Douglas-Reeves
Olivia was first introduced to rowing at age 13 on the River Tees and went on to become Junior Captain at Tees Rowing Club. Olivia joined Infinity as a First Rowing Management Apprentice in partnership with British Rowing and now works as School Liaison, helping schools across the local area introduce young people to rowing. Olivia works closely with schools to deliver rowing experiences both on and off the water, including school taster days, Learn2Row programmes, after-school clubs, indoor rowing competitions and development opportunities. She has organised and delivered multiple inter-school rowing competitions, bringing students together for fun, competitive events and helping schools experience the excitement of racing. Alongside her work with schools, Olivia is actively involved in club sessions and regularly delivers Friday Fun Fitness, a firm favourite among Infinity's active members. Her sessions combine fitness, games, and challenges to keep athletes engaged while developing teamwork, confidence and a love of being active. Olivia is passionate about making rowing accessible to young people of all abilities and using the sport to develop confidence, teamwork, communication and resilience alongside rowing skills.
Club Welfare Officer (CWO)
Richard Olver
Born in Teesside with a 48-year career in Road Transport & Logistics. Active member of Tees Rowing Club since 2004, serving on the Club Committee.
Safeguarding Officer
Michele Holdsworth
Dedicated to creating safe, inclusive environments for all young people at Infinity Boat Club. First point of contact for any welfare concerns.
Apprentice Coach
Demi Mockler
Demi began rowing age 15 at Infinity Boat Club to try something out of her comfort zone. She is ecstatic to become a part of the Infinity Boat Club's coaching team as she believes it is far more than just a club – it is a family which strives to inspire regardless of anyone's background or circumstances. She is driven by the idea that no matter what situation is in front of her, she will ensure she creates a fun and welcoming environment for all athletes. Demi hopes to support young athletes and show them being an athlete is more than just the sport; it is about the friends and experience you gain along the way.
Strength & Conditioning Coach
Matty McCarthy
Bio coming soon.
Facilities Assistant
Pete Johnson
Bio coming soon.