Darcy McCluskey

Darcy McCluskey is a stroke-side sweep rower from Brisbane, Queensland, whose dynamic sporting journey has taken him from the football pitch to the top tier of international rowing. A product of St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace, Darcy first rose to prominence in football, representing Queensland Schoolboys and earning selection in the Australian Schoolboys Soccer Team in both 2015 and 2017. But it was rowing that ultimately captured his heart, continuing a family tradition established by his father.

Darcy’s rowing career has spanned continents and codes. He began his collegiate rowing at Cal Berkeley before transferring to the University of Washington, where he made a name for himself as a formidable stroke. In 2024, he stroked Washington’s Second Varsity Eight (2V8+) to an IRA National Championship title, adding to a string of wins at the Pac-12 Championships, Opening Day Regatta, and Erickson Cascade Cup. The year prior, he stroked Washington’s Varsity Eight (V8+) to silver at both the Pac-12 and IRA National Championships, earning Second-Team All-American honors and recognition as an Empacher-IRCA Scholar Athlete.

Internationally, Darcy represented Australia at the 2022 World Rowing Under 23 Championships, winning Bronze in the Men’s Eight (7 seat) and stroking the coxed four in the same campaign. He also competed at World Rowing Cup III in Lucerne that year, racing in the Men’s Eight.

On the domestic front, Darcy won Bronze for Queensland in the King's Cup (2021) and remains a proud member of KAND Rowing Club. His 2025 goals include medalling at a World Cup, earning selection for the World Championships, and standing atop the podium on the world stage.

Outside of rowing, Darcy works full-time as a Land Surveyor (Party Chief). He still enjoys football, surfing, hiking, and a good game of FIFA, keeping his competitive edge sharp no matter the setting. His first coach, Michael Howard, helped set the foundation for what has become a richly diverse and accomplished career.

Darcy’s most treasured memory in sport? Winning the 2024 Collegiate National Title with UW, a culmination of years of sacrifice, resilience, and the kind of belief that continues to drive him forward.