Ethan Freedman '20 Recruiting Profile

When trying out for the novice team of my rowing club during the 2016-17 season, I certainly stood out. I was the shortest kid on the team, and was constantly being asked whether or not I was trying out to be a coxswain, but they all got the same answer: "I’m here to row." I understand that my determination may have come across as cheesy, but I really felt it was necessary, because I was 5'4" and 95 pounds and I knew that there was no way I would get on the team without showing the coach how much it meant to me, how determined I was to win - in every moment that I could.

And so that is just what I did. I may have tried out with guys who towered over me, but on run tests I was a competitor for each and every one of them. I had to take three steps for every one step they would take, but it kept me ahead, helping me to finish top five on a mile time trial surrounded by guys much taller and stronger than I was. And the result was that I made the team, they chose to bring me in to row.

Rowing isn’t easy for me - I may not have all the height and I might not have all the weight, but I have a goal, and for me rowing is something that I truly believe is in my blood. I have never shied away from the challenges I’ve found in the process, aiming to push the people stronger, taller, and heavier than me, and using them to push me as well. A quick example: the very first day on the varsity team, one of the coaches said to me something along the lines of "you are too small for this sport, I would have never picked you to be a member of the team." That hit me really hard, but it also motivated me the entire year of 2017-2018. By the end of the year I had gained 50 pounds in mass, dropped seven splits on my 6k time, and dropped 15 splits on my 2k time.

I believe that I have brought real discipline and determination to rowing, but I also believe that rowing itself has enhanced my work ethic and determination throughout the rest of my life. My participation in rowing has built a piece of my life I wish to continue for as long as possible. My club rowing team, the people, and the sport mean a great deal in my life. When I walk into the facility, I aim to show that, share it, and hopefully inspire others to feel the same way. 

I am going to be blatant. If you want someone taller who will give you sub 6:30erg splits, I might not be the right fit. However, if you are looking for someone who will come into every single practice totally ready to work, fully determined to win, and absolutely willing to do everything and anything needed for your team, I’m your guy. Thank you.