Northwestern State University’s rowing team prides itself on community and competitive spirit. In the 2025-2026 season, the team has grown and fostered talent, making this season memorable for its members.
Sophia Witman, a sophomore biology major, decided to join the rowing team because she rowed for one year in middle school and for two years in high school. “I wanted to continue competing in a sport I love,” Witman said. “Our rowing team was actually one of the reasons I chose to attend NSU.”
Now, as a two-year member, she said that rowing has been the highlight of her college experience so far. Witman added that it has aided her in meeting other students, staying active and being involved both on and off campus and with other universities.
“In the community we engage through fundraisers and by rowing along Front Street, where locals and tourists often stop to watch,” Witman said. “Also, at races and spring training events, we get to connect with student-athletes from other schools as well.”
Witman said this year the team traveled to southern Louisiana, Texas, Tennessee and Georgia. During the Louisiana State University Championship Regatta, the women’s varsity team placed second, beating LSU, Tulane University, Xavier University and Rice University.
Her favorite memory from rowing was racing in Nashville, Tenn., at the Music City Head Race, and spending the evening downtown. “We took fun pictures, then returned to the hotel to swim in the pool and play card games,” Witman said. “It was a wonderful bonding experience for the team after a full day of races.”
Witman said that what sets the rowing team apart from other club sports is their travel schedule and competitive spirit. She said that the team is also committed to fundraising. “We are able to pay for all travel costs, equipment and boathouse renovations using the money we fundraise,” Witman said.
Witman shared that this year, the NSU crew worked on renovating their boathouse and ergometer, a rowing workout machine. The building is now insulated, has an air conditioner, has newly-painted walls and the staff recently finished their annual spring cleaning.
Students looking to stay active in a community environment can be involved with the rowing team. Regardless of experience, NSU students like Whitman can come together to have fun, compete and take a break from their busy lives on the water.
