Coaches
John Hillmann
HEAD Coach
After a strong 2025 season leading the SBRC boys’ crews, John Hillmann returns as Interim Head Coach for Stone Bridge Rowing Club. Last season marked an exciting milestone as SBRC rowed its first year from the new boathouse — a major step forward for the program’s future.
A former competitive rower at Fordham University and father of both SBRC alumni and a current freshman, John brings a deep understanding of the sport’s challenges and rewards. His coaching emphasizes physical strength, mental resilience, and sportsmanship, ensuring every athlete grows both on and off the water.
As a USRowing Level 1 Coach, John focuses this season on developing novice athletes and preparing returning rowers to compete — and win — at the highest level. Working alongside the rest of the SBRC coaches, he’s committed to helping every athlete find confidence, speed, and purpose in their rowing journey.
Linh Tran
Assistant Coach
Coach Linh is back at SBRC for her third season, dedicated to helping every rower and coxswain experience the excitement of personal growth while discovering how their individual contributions drive team success. Last year, she guided the WJV4+ to an impressive silver medal at the Virginia Scholastic Rowing Championship, a top-10 finish at the prestigious Stotesbury Cup Regatta, and a finals appearance at the SRAA Scholastic National Championship—making them the only Loudoun County boat to reach this achievement.
As Assistant Coach, she focuses on developing well-rounded student-athletes —teaching rowing technique alongside the mental toughness and social-emotional skills that matter in and out of the boat. For her, rowing isn't just about winning races; it's about having fun while building life skills like teamwork, communication, grit, and dedication that last well beyond high school.
Justin Rowan
Assistant Coach
Justin Rowan is back for a second year as assistant coach for Stone Bridge Rowing. Justin was a varsity swimmer and varsity rower at Connecticut College and coached for Nike Rowing Camps. In addition to his collegiate experience, Justin has attended and participated in several athletic and performance conditioning schools. Justin enjoys bringing his experience as well as innovative training to the team with the goal of maximizing the potential and success of every member of Stone Bridge Rowing.
Chris Mantyla
Assistant Coach
Chris is a 2022 graduate of Stone Bridge High School and a three-year member of the Stone Bridge rowing program. He understands this team and the standards that define SBRC—because he grew up in them. Chris most recently coached with SBRC during the Spring 2024 season, where he played a key role in guiding our novice athletes to a successful, well-run season. His has an amazing ability to connect with new rowers, teach strong fundamentals, and build confidence.