Senior Athlete Spotlight: Paige G

1. When did you start rowing, and why?
I started rowing in the fall of 2022. At first, I thought rowing was lame, I just didn’t want to try it. It felt so different from ballet, which had been such a big part of my life, and I couldn’t imagine myself doing something like this. When I was first invited to give it a shot, I turned it down.
But eventually, I got convinced to try. That first day on the water changed everything for me. I rowed a double with the person who introduced me to the sport, Ella Odegard. I even flipped the boat on my first day, but somehow, that only made me love it more. It was the kind of unexpected, humbling, and exciting experience that shifted my whole perspective.
From that moment on, rowing became more than just a sport. It gave me something I didn’t realize I needed: a sense of family, sportsmanship, competitiveness, and confidence. It challenged me in new ways and pushed me to grow, not just physically, but as a person.
Looking back, I’m so grateful I took that chance. Rowing has shaped who I am, and I can’t imagine my life without it now.

2. What has been your most memorable experience on the team?
One of my most memorable experiences with my current team was going to Boston for the Head of the Charles. I remember our boat had only about 2–3 weeks of water time to prepare. Before those intense weeks of training even began, we had to go through multiple rounds of seat racing. It was tough, 20 girls were fighting for just one seat, and somehow, I earned it. That alone made me appreciate the race even more.
During that time, I built such a strong connection with the girls in my boat. We became best friends, bonded not just by the challenge ahead but by our shared determination to have a great race. We trusted each other completely, and that trust made all the difference.
After we crossed the finish line, completely exhausted, I remember thinking, "We’ve done enough to place in the top half," hoping that would secure our team a spot for next year. We staggered onto the dock, breathless and drained, and that’s when we saw our coach—wearing the biggest, cheesiest grin on his face. Then he told us the news: we placed 9th out of 55 boats.
We all broke into tears, hugging each other, overwhelmed with pride and disbelief. It was one of the most powerful moments I’ve ever experienced. That feeling—knowing we had done something so meaningful, especially after the previous year when our team hadn’t earned an automatic spot—was unforgettable.
When I think of Vashon Island Rowing Team, that race is what I picture. I can still see it so clearly. It was the moment I realized that all the hard work, the pressure, the sacrifices—they were worth it. I had set a goal, and together, we achieved it.

3. What are your plans this fall?
This fall, I’m taking the first big step toward pursuing my dream of becoming a veterinary technician. To make this dream a reality, I’ll be enrolling in the four-year online program through Penn Foster, while working at a local café to help pay for tuition. It won’t be easy balancing work and school, but I’m determined to make it happen, because this is what I truly want.
At the same time, I’m holding on tightly to something else that means the world to me: rowing. Even with everything going on, I hope to continue training with the Masters team at Vashon Island Rowing Club, or maybe find a local alumni team wherever I end up. Rowing has given me so much strength, confidence, and happiness, and I’m not ready to let that go. It’s become such a huge part of who I am, and I want to carry that with me into this next chapter of my life.

4. What advice would you give to a new athlete in rowing?
If I could give one piece of advice to a new athlete in rowing, it would be to always believe in yourself. Confidence is everything. Don’t waste time comparing yourself to others—every rower has their own journey, and what matters most is that you’re proud of who you are and how far you’ve come. Believing in yourself is one of the most powerful tools you can carry, it’s like having strength in your back pocket, ready when you need it most.
And never be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s advice, support, or just someone to listen, your teammates and coaches are there for you. Rowing teams become like family, they lift you up when you’re down, celebrate your wins, and push you to be better. You’re never alone in this sport, and that’s one of the most beautiful parts of it.