NEWPORT NEWS, Va. -- Christopher Newport University Director of Atheltics Kyle McMullin announced the hiring of Grace Watlington as the new head sailing coach. Watlington, a 2026 graduate of CNU, becomes just the fourth coach of the Captains since 1991. 

"Grace is an outstanding representative of Christopher Newport University and was a central figure as a competitor during one of the most successful eras of CNU Sailing," said McMullin. "I am eager to see her contribute to the program's success in her new role as head coach."

Watlington is one of the most accomplished women's sailors in Christopher Newport University after helping lead t Captains from 2022-26. She started her career in 2022 and sailed in 46 events over her four-year career. She is one of only three sailors in program history to compete in the Women's National Semifinals more than once in her career as she appeared in the postseason event both in 2024 and 2025.

During her junior campaign, the Poquoson, Va. native registered a top-ten finish in the Faye Bennet MAISA Women's Singlehanded Championship to mark the highest finish by a CNU women's sailor in at least 22 years and is among the finest individual performances in program history. Other career highlights include wins at the 2022 Luce Trophy and the 2025 Luce Trophy while also contributing to a win in her final regular season appearance during the 2026 Grant hosted by Old Dominion.

This Fall, Watlington joined the coaching staff and has helped lead the Captains through a busy schedule of fall regattas. CNU earned top-five finishes at the Kingsmill Cup (Sep 19-20), the Jefferson Cup (Sep 26-27), and the Webb/Woollum Regatta (Oct 10-11).