John Edwards took over as the head coach of the men's crew team in the Spring of 2022, replacing longtime head coach Alex Machi who retired at the conclusion of the 2021 Fall season.
Coach Edwards has been with The Academy for two decades working in the small boats department and other areas of Massachusetts Maritime.
Since taking over the men's rowing team he has earned his US Rowing Level 2 Coach Certification.
Massachusetts Maritime Academy’s Head Coach Winthrop John Edwards, a trailblazing figure in the world of rowing whose journey into the sport defies convention. While many head coaches boast collegiate rowing pedigrees, Coach Edwards charted a unique path.
His love affair with rowing began later in life, diving into the sport at the masters level. Without the traditional college rowing background, Coach Edwards passion for the water and dedication to the craft propelled him into the heart of competitive rowing. His journey from novice to seasoned rower, competing fiercely in regattas, embodies resilience, learning, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Coach Edwards brings an unparalleled perspective, blending hands-on experience, a deep understanding of the sport, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing and shaping the next generation of rowing champions.
- Master’s in Education APU, Bachelor of Science in Technology Leadership and Management (Industrial Technology) from Roger Williams University.
- Senior Chief (SW/AW) Larry Jones is a native of Columbia, SC. He joined the Academy in August 2015 as Lab Assistant for the Engineering Department. He assists and instructs students in professional engineering labs such as refrigeration, auxiliary machinery, diesel engines, steam generators, and gas and steam turbines. Prior to MMA, Larry was a Credentialed Electronic Patient Information Chart (EPIC) Orders Trainer. He provided training to doctors on workflow processes and participated in South Coast Hospitals "Go Live” event.
- Senior Chief Jones enlisted in November of 1988 and attended recruit training and Machinist Mate A School at Great Lakes, Illinois. His first duty assignment was onboard USS Wainwright (CG-28) where he completed his Engine Room Messenger and Distilling Plant Operator qualifications. Following USS Wainwright, Senior Chief Jones completed two more sea duty tours onboard USS Sierra (AD-18), and USS Mt Baker (AE-34). Senior Chief Jones then was assigned to Naval Support Facility Groton, Connecticut, followed by sea duty assignments onboard USS Detroit AOE-4), and USS Seattle (AOE-3) where he attained his Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) qualification. In 2003 he reported to the Surface Warfare Officer School (SWOS) Command, in Newport, Rhode Island, where he served as a Steam Instructor. During his tour at SWOS Senior Chief Jones was designated a Master Training Specialist and awarded Instructor of the Year, and Sailor of the Year. In 2007, following this successful, he reported aboard USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), where he attained his Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW) qualification and his Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist (EAWS) qualification. In May 2010, following Recruit Division Commander (RDC) School in Great Lakes, Illinois, and Senior Chief Jones reported for duty as a Senior Enlisted Leader at the Naval Academy Preparatory School, Newport, Rhode Island. As a Mentor and Advisor, he personally trained over 900 future Naval and Marine Corps officers. After graduating the Senior Enlisted Academy, Senior Chief Jones reported for duty August 15th, 2013 to the USS Ross DDG71, where he successfully lead a undermanned engineering department through the inspection cycle, achieving all grades above the fleet average and contributing to a successful Foreign Deployed status in support of the Ballistic Missile Defense.
- Current Job: In March 2022, Senior Chief Jones joined Student Services as 5th Company Officer. He mentors, leads, guides, supports, instructs, advocates and develops OUR future into responsible positive impact leaders.
- His personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (two gold stars), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two gold stars), Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal (one silver- star), and other unit, campaign, and service awards. Senior Chief Jones is married to the former Gayle Gomes of New Bedford, MA.
Education: B.S., Bucknell University
Education:
A.A.; B.S. Eastern Nazarene College
M.B.A. Bridgewater State University
Education:
CAGS, Messiah University (Mechanicsburg, PA); M.Sc., Northeastern University (Boston, MA); B.Mus., Youngstown State University (Youngstown, OH); Diploma with Honors, Liberty High School (Liberty Twp., OH).
Background:
Wayne Magee is a dynamic higher education administrator, educator and conductor whose career spans leadership development, student affairs and music education. He currently serves as the Assistant Director of Student Affairs and Residential Life at Massachusetts Maritime Academy, where he has been a cornerstone of the student affairs department since 2008. His portfolio includes overseeing student conduct,leadership development, advising student organizations, and managing crisis response and residential operations. Additionally, he serves as Director of Bands, Honor Guard and Drill Team,the organization better known as the "Pride of the Regiment" under his stewardship has garnered national acclaim performing annually in Boston, New York City and Washington D.C. coupled with numerous invitations to perform internationally.
Wayne Magee’s academic credentials include a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Wind Band Conducting from Messiah University, a Master of Science in Leadership from Northeastern University, and a Bachelor of Music, cum laude, from Youngstown State University. His education has been enriched through mentorship by esteemed conductors and musicians, and he continues to inspire students through his role as a senior lecturer at Bridgewater State University, teaching courses in Organizational Behavior and Strategic Management.
An accomplished author, Wayne wrote Tough Blows: A Life Journey Defying the Odds and has published several articles in respected academic and music education journals. He is a frequent guest conductor and presenter, with appearances at institutions such as Yale University and professional conferences like the College Band Directors National Association Eastern Division Conference.
Beyond academia, Wayne is the founder of WDM 4:13 Company, where he works as a speaker and coach, focusing on leadership and resilience. His media presence includes features in podcasts, university news outlets, and national publications. He holds multiple professional certifications and remains actively involved in associations including the National Band Association and the College Band Directors National Association.
Wayne Magee’s career exemplifies a commitment to service, leadership, and excellence, making a profound impact on students, colleagues, and the broader educational and musical communities.
For more information about Wayne please see his website at : www.toughblows.com
