Personal Statement
Dear Coach,
My name is Allison Lea and I am writing to introduce myself to you. It's been less than a year since I discovered my passion for crew. This spring I was a part of Yorktown High School's novice 8+ where I rowed seven seat. Our boat placed second in the Virginia Scholastic Rowing Association (VASRA) regatta. The photo on this profile of me is right after the medal ceremony. I am a junior in high school and turned 16 in August and stand 5'10" and weigh 175 pounds. My 2k time is 8:02 and was established when I was still 15. Over the summer I worked with a personal trainer and rowed in a club program at the Thompson Boat Center (TBC) in Washington, DC. I am also rowing with TBC Racing this fall.
I'm preparing for college by taking three AP courses this year. I took two years of Japanese language after living abroad in Japan. Growing up as a military kid I learned resilience and determination - both are helpful in the classroom and on the river.
During school I count down the hours until its time to go to the boathouse. I enjoy the early mornings and the cold bite of early spring. This sport gives me so much joy: I love rowing until my legs ache and my breath is harsh. Every time I see the boathouse my heart leaps - because to be honest - rowing is my passion. I really love carrying the boat and getting the oars down and going to sleep early just to watch the sun rise on the river is one of my favorite things in the world. Through every rough day I keep pulling for that sweet joy of doing well at a regatta. My goal is to be a college student-athlete and I look forward to speaking with you or one of your assistants.
Sincerely,
Allison
