Alexandria, VA – It wasn’t the first shell West Potomac crew members named after their beloved longtime coach, Charles “Chick” Little, but it was the most poignant.
Coach Little died in December 2019, but because of the pandemic, the dedication of a shell to his memory was postponed until last month. On April 6, a special ceremony took place at Sandy Run Regional Park.
Over the years, Coach had two rowing shells named after him, but when approached in 1997 about naming another, he insisted that it honor the woman who allowed him to give so much time and energy to crew, his wonderful wife, Evelyn. The “EVE” is still an active boat in the West Potomac fleet.
Born in Pennsylvania, Little graduated from Rutgers University and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College to become a career officer. After 32 years of service, Colonel Little retired from the U.S. Army and continued to serve his country by joining the U.S. State Department. He received numerous honors and medals, including the Bronze Star with one oak leaf cluster and the Joint Service Commendation Medal.
Coach Little was a strong advocate of youth sports. Throughout his military and civilian service, he stayed involved and, with various breaks for international duties, he coached Fort Hunt HS and later West Potomac crew for decades, from the late 1960s until 1997. Little supported his neighborhood Waynewood Swim team and was an active member of the Fort Hunt Sportsmen.
Chick Little is survived by his wife of 51 years, Evelyn Little, and his children, James Little (Lake Ridge, VA) and Chris Little (Alexandria, VA); his sister, Dolores Little and sister-in-law Roberta Martin (both of Pennsylvania), and many other family members.
