Nicholas Riley '27 Recruiting Profile

I started rowing the summer before seventh grade at a local two-week camp. We’d row out past the bridges, jump in for a swim, and call it a day. I signed up for the fall middle school program expecting more of the same, but I quickly learned that real rowing was far more intense. It didn’t scare me off. Instead, I got hooked. I fell in love with the simple yet maddening pursuit of perfection. I stuck it out through my first winter season and started chasing progress seriously. Since then, rowing has become my main focus. I train daily, usually with one water practice and extra erg session afterward. I take great pride in showing up early, dialing in technique, and setting high standards for myself.

This year, my goal is to podium at Head of the Charles and Youth Nationals. Achieving that will take discipline and time, but I’ve already embraced the grind, the setbacks, and the breakthroughs. I’m intensely disciplined and approach training with purpose. Last year, I balanced AP Computer Science A with rowing and regional prep, managing recovery, studying, and performance all at once. I bring that same level of focus to my academics as I do to the boat. My goal isn’t just to row in college—I want to lead. I’ve been part of my school’s peer leadership program, mentoring younger students and supporting the community, and I hope to grow into a team captain role in my final year at Greenwich Crew.

There’s nothing else I’ve found that challenges me the way rowing does. It’s a constant test of mental and physical strength, and I know I’ve only scratched the surface of my potential. I want to keep pushing that ceiling at the collegiate level, surrounded by rowers who bring the same energy and drive. I’m excited to find the right program where I can compete, lead, and grow alongside a team that holds itself to the highest standard.