In 2017, I had my first encounter with rowing when my high school joined the All Aboard Youth Rowing scheme.  This was the first time I’d heard of the sport and  the local club that I would spend huge amounts of my time at for the next 7 years.

On Monday mornings, myself and my other school peers would spend 2 hours learning the ropes of rowing out on the Mersey, it was this 2 hour time slot that I’d always look forward to. I had a reason to be excited for the beginning of the school week  I was never a student who hated school, I just lacked confidence in the classroom due to my ADHD—instead of asking questions and asking for help I’d keep to myself—but with the help of rowing I seemed to gain confidence and motivation. The All Aboard Youth Rowing scheme allowed me to grow as a person in both general and school life.

It’s because of the amazing Youth Rowing scheme and coaches that I am, ultimately, where I am now. Without All Aboard Youth Rowing I’d never know about the sport, I’d have never joined Warrington Rowing Club as a member, and I would not have been able to experience racing at Henley Women’s or Henley Royal Regatta. I would not hold a silver medal from Brit Champs and, I would especially not be on an Athletic Scholarship at The University of Tulsa, USA.

I row in the first Varsity 8 for Tulsa and this year we won gold at our conference in Tennessee, we also were also awarded boat of the year by the All-American Conference, I was also named to the All-American academic team.

These opportunities that I’ve been able to experience have been made possible because of my first initial encounter with rowing, and I’m grateful that All Aboard Youth Rowing were the first to take me under their wing. For this I thank them.