Bucknell University Athletics
Bucknell Women's Rowing Journal - Taylor Jordan
4/23/2010 8:00:00 AM | Women's Rowing
April 23, 2010
As a seventh-year rower, I am well aware how challenging the sport of rowing can be at times, but I never imagined I would face the difficulties I have seen so far this season. I was also not clear of the impact that working through these difficulties would have on me until now. Up until this point, I have had a pretty smooth ride when it came to working hard, seeing good results, and having stress-free boating experiences. This was the first year I was tremendously challenged, both mentally and physically, and I am in the process of rising above it and pushing myself to move forward.
The mental game plays a huge part in athletics as a whole, and through this growth process, I have now realized the importance of leaving all of those issues on land when you step into the boat. When you make it to race day, spending time thinking about anything besides rowing your hardest is wasting precious energy. Not only on race day, but even at practice - there is no room in your head for anything but rowing your best. Anyone who has ever been involved with a women's team knows what I am talking about. Allowing yourself to get caught up in any drama will only hold you back, and I am finally coming to realize that.
The amount you must test yourself mentally is part of the reason why not everyone and anyone can handle a Division I sport. There are times when you feel like you might just give up, and in those times, the people who carry on are the ones who succeed. It takes a lot of effort to continue on even when things seem to be at their worst. I know that most every collegiate athlete has faced a time such as this, but only a few make it through on top. This year has brought me a new sense of myself and also a new sense of what is important on a team. I know that other women on the team have experienced similar emotions and sharing this brings us all closer together. Pressing together and rising above unnecessary issues is a lot easier said than done, but once you understand the concept, it is amazing how much it changes your outlook on sports and in life.
- Taylor Jordan '11
