Our Team
Director of Rowing
rowingdirector@clevelandrows.org
Jonathan Crist
Bringing a coach and leader of Jonathan’s caliber to CRF is an exciting moment for our community. He will help deepen our connection across the region while developing coaches and expanding opportunities to get more people on the water along the Cuyahoga River.
Jonathan joins CRF from Cascadilla Boat Club in Ithaca, where he led efforts to grow participation, strengthen culture, and build sustainable systems for equipment, funding, and coach development. His work reflects a clear focus on building strong, welcoming programs that deliver meaningful rowing experiences.
He has coached across NCAA Division I and III, collegiate club, junior, and community programs, and has coordinated USRowing U19 High Performance and Olympic Development camps. At every level, his approach centers on investing in coaches—through mentorship, professional development, and support—to elevate the experience for athletes and the broader community.
Jonathan holds a PhD in Rhetoric from Duquesne University and brings a thoughtful, intentional leadership style grounded in communication, mentorship, and service.
We are excited for what’s ahead as Jonathan joins our team and begins his work with coaches, athletes, and partners across the CRF community.
Maintenance Director
Florin Filipescu
Florin Filipescu is responsible for keeping boathouse equipment and facilities in good working order, including maintenance and minor repair of launches, outboardengines, and ergometers, as well as minor repair to building facilities. He is responsible for coordination and pick-up/delivery of fuel and equipment requiring major repair with outside vendors. Florin is also responsible for overseeing all major building capital projects related to facility enhancements and renovation projects. He is instrumental in assisting with the day-to-day operations of the boathouse.
Florin handles all security related matter and holds a Certificate of Completion IACSSP Change 5 through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. He is a graduate of East Technical High School ROTC program.