- August 2020
Personal Statement
My name is Jordan Keene,
Rowing was introduced to my life in the fall of 2014. My cousin had just recently began rowing, and I had decided that it was time I commit to a sport. After influence from my cousin and my parents, I had opted to give rowing a try. Through my 6th and 7th grade years at Sarasota Crew I spent time getting comfortable in the boat and learning fundamental technique. 8th grade was the beginning of my racing career at Sarasota. While rowing in 6 seat, our coaches motivated our squad to win the Freshman 8+ at the 2017 Florida State Championship. That race ignited my urge to push past every limit to get that feeling again, the feeling of not just victory, but the excitement of pure adrenaline driving the rage and power through my blade in the water. The feeling that for just one second, I was flying. My freshman year, my central goal was to hold first in the 8+ category as well as win back the Freshman 4x category from last year's 3rd place finish. Racing in 6 seat again, we were able to execute a successful race to win the Freshman 8+, and while bowing the Freshman 4x at the Sculling State Championship, we were able to beat out the competition to first. My first year racing Varsity in spring season began my sophomore year. In 2019, my partner and I raced to 2nd place in the Women's Varsity 2x, and in the 3v8+, we were able to win our race as well. As the season continues, I hope to succeed in racing the Women's 1st Varsity 8+ at States and Nationals.
I am fortunate enough to row at a facility that is only 5 minutes from my high school. Pine View School is ranked #1 in Florida and #15 in the nation, so I have many opportunities to take advanced and rigorous courses. I will finish my Junior year having completed 7 AP classes, and next year I plan on taking 4 more AP classes to best satisfy my schedule and interests. Not only do I dedicate my time outside of rowing to my academics, but music has played a large part in my life and helped me to maintain low stress levels from day to day. I have played piano for 9 years, and I have been a part of choir since elementary school. I see music as an outlet and a tool of expression that helps me consider the little things and appreciate the people in my life that work to allow me great opportunities.
My coach often reminds us that rowing embodies the concept of insanity, repeating the same action over and over again expecting different results. Every time I go out on the water, I try to be better than the last time, I try to push harder, and swing farther. I know that I am not entitled to anything, and I won't stop until I earn my place in the future. Rowing has consumed my life, and I am so grateful to be able to do the thing everyday, that makes me feel alive.
