As the crisp fall air arrives, so does the crew season. Established in 1999, the Crew has been a way for athletes to bond and work as a team. This year, athletes are gathering, ready to make this season one to remember.
Alexandra Carver, 17, started her rowing career seven years ago and was inspired to join the plant crew team. She has been rowing ever since.
“It is a group of friends that push through rough times in the sport and are there for each other through the highs and lows,” Carver said.
Unlike most school sports, the Crew practices through all sports seasons, rain or shine. Their journey begins in early August, pushing themselves and preparing for their first regatta in October. They end with their last race in April, where their hard work pays off.
During seven months of training, the Crew team pushes their limits with various intensity workouts to ensure maximum (build) strength and endurance. Carver explained that there is low-intensity rowing on the water in the fall with scattered lifting sessions throughout the week. As spring rolls around, the team trains with high-intensity workouts with less lifting. Carver also noted that everyone’s season is different and tailored to each athlete’s goals.
“Off-season is more power building with lifting and a little bit of cardio mixed in,” she said. “But it is different for everyone. I have seen some members focus more on cardio. It depends on the person really.”
Looking ahead into the season, with their scattered races throughout the spring, the crew team embraces a positive perspective. Not only are they excited about all the upcoming races, but they are also fostering meaningful connections. As Carver puts it, “With this season, we are trying to have a more positive outlook on the season and improve where we can. I am looking forward to getting closer with the teammates and being able to bond and create a meaningful impact for my senior year.”
This captures the true essence of the team’s energy and commitment, setting the stage for a season filled with growth and memorable achievements that we can all look forward to.
The varsity crew team trains five days a week, and the novice team trains four days a week, balancing weight and rowing. Despite practices under the beaming sun, Carver notes that the support and encouragement from teammates make it all worthwhile.
“My most positive experience in the sport is when I’m racing down the course against the other teams and I can hear my team cheering me and my boat on as loud as they can, even chasing us down the path to support us through the whole thing,” she said.
