Hidden away in the basement, winter crew may not be as flashy as other sports, but it shouldn’t be forgotten. Although there aren’t any meets in the winter, the sport still has plenty to offer.
“Not many people want to do crew, but it’s a really good workout,” says Kaitlyn Graupner ‘25. If you’re like me you’d assume that crew would be most taxing on your arms, but the rowers tell me that it really works your whole body – especially your legs.
Kaitlyn explains that’s where most of the power should come from. “That’s where most of the muscles are. It’s easier to put muscles in your legs than your arms and back. A weightlifter that notoriously skipped leg day would be really bad at crew.”
“I’m much stronger than when I started,” Kaitlyn adds.
Crew has much more to offer than just physical benefits. Claire Lingle ‘24 says, “Something I have gained from crew is mental toughness. I have struggled with it in the past, but crew has taught me to push harder even when it hurts, as well as to strive for the best even when you can’t see straight”.
Caroline O’Mara ‘22 agrees. “I feel like my mental toughness and ability to overcome challenges has increased so much doing this sport for the past 6 years.”
She adds, “My favorite thing about crew is the amazing relationships I have with my teammates. Crew has allowed me to find some of my best friends, not only my fellow seniors but with the younger girls as well. As we are such a small team—everyone is very close and supports one another.”
Although the sport can be hard, it clearly has some amazing rewards. So, next time you’re choosing what winter sport to do, maybe you’ll consider winter crew!
