Stephanie Sodero
Rower Profile
I joined the Halifax Rowing Club in beautiful Nova Scotia in high school. My interest was peaked when, vegging out in front of the tube, I saw an advert for a learn-to-row program. Due to a dedicated coach, the experience was so positive that I tried out for my university rowing team (Trent University, Ontario). I made the team by one very consequential second.
Rowing defined my university experience. Highlights included winning the Head of the Trent in an eight and making the pairs final at the Royal Canadian Henley (going strong since 1880!) I also competed in international regattas: Head of the Charles (Boston, Massachusetts), Head of the Genesse (Rochester, New York) and Head of the Schuylkill (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania). More than a decade later moments of triumph and defeat, frivolity and folly are still fresh. One coxy, Rob DeJong, I think of often. He had cystic fibrosis and was advised by doctors not to row. His love for the sport was so great that he persisted. Rob passed during my first year. On and off the water, his grace and spirit inspire me.
After seven all-consuming years, the time came to hang up my oar. But even years later, passing a stretch of calm water would elicit a shuddering sigh and longing look.
And so, upon arriving in Lancaster in September, it was with the broadest of smiles that I peered out my flat window to discover the rowing club. Home away from home.
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