Many of the most successful IC rowers (and coaches!) didn't plan to row in college at all. They came to us from basketball, soccer, field hockey, swimming, gymnastics, cross country or some other athletic endeavor.
Some were injured or burned out by their previous sports, while others were passionate competitors who - despite being dedicated teammates - didn't quite make the cut on a collegiate varsity level.
While moving on from a first-love sport can be painful, many athletes who would otherwise miss the structure, comradery and competition of being on a team can find a new home - and sometimes even greater success - in rowing. No exaggeration: you can go from being a walk-on novice rower to an NCAA Championship competitor during your 4 years at IC.
General athleticism, work ethic and growth mindset are more important to successful rowing than experience or raw talent. If you're getting curious, add PALS 05600 - Intro to Rowing - to your course schedule this fall.
*check Intercom again next week for MORE clues that rowing could be for you.