VICTORIA, British Columbia (Men's Rowing) – Florida Tech's Spencer Freeman has been selected by Rowing Canada to participate in the country's Junior World Selection Camp, scheduled for June 29-July 9 in Victoria, B.C. 

Freeman was one of only 15 rowers and two coxswains invited to the camp.  Twelve rowers and one coxswain will represent Canada in the Junior World Championships August 4-8 in the Czech Republic.

“I'm very excited for this chance to represent my country and my coaches, who have helped me reach this point,” Freeman said.  “I'm confident that I have put in the time and hard work needed to earn my spot on the team.  At the same time, I'm a bit nervous.  This is a completely new experience for me.  I know that I'll have to compete against the best junior rowers in Canada to earn my spot.”

Invitations to the selection camp were based on a rower's performance at the Junior National Team Trials, ergometer score rankings and past regatta results. 

At the Junior National Team Trials, Freeman earned the third seed in the men's single time trials.  Despite experiencing some difficulty in the semifinal, the Calgary, Alberta native stepped up his performance in the petite finals, finishing 14 seconds ahead of the field.  His time, a brisk 7:35.15, was also faster than every boat in the grand final. 

“I'm really excited for Spencer and his opportunity,” Tech head coach Jim Granger said.  “I'm sure he will make the most of his chance.  He contributed tremendously to our success this past season.  We're all supporting him and we wish him the best of luck.”

The first week of selection camp will consist of practices, which will allow the rowers and coxswains to get acquainted with one another.  During the week of July 5, the participants will be divided into an eight and a four.  Rowing Canada will announce its team on July 9.