On March 8, The Hornets' Varsity Eight was named the West Coast Conference Crew of the Week. Photo courtesy of Sacramento State University

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - The Hornets' Varsity Eight was named the West Coast Conference Crew of the Week for the team's performance on March 8 at the season-opening Sacramento State Invitational.

The Hornets joined the West Coast Conference this season, and took home the honor in their first week in the conference.

At the Sacramento State Invitational on Lake Natoma, the Hornets took home first place in a five-boat field, which included three other West Coast Conference teams.

Despite racing with a crew that consisted of just two seniors, the Hornets finished with a winning time of 6:53.4, followed by Saint Mary's (6:57.5), Portland (7:04.3), Santa Clara (7:28.3) and Orange Coast College (7:43.5). The Hornets raced with 4-6 mph cross winds on the course.

Sacramento State's lineup in that race was, cox - Emma Goldsmith, stroke - Nieka Marais, seven -Valarie Reed, six - Kaylee Godwin, five - Daria Okhremtchuk, four - Ella Holmes, three - Mackenzie Murray, two - Ruth Brooks and bow - Harper Waring.

Sacramento State is scheduled to be back in action for the Hornet Invitational March 15 on Lake Natoma at 8:30 a.m.