Port Rowing Team Rides High After Close Call at Nationals

Heartbreak can be a motivational force, and for the Port Rowing team, that was certainly the case two years ago. The varsity eight narrowly missed qualifying for nationals by just 0.158 seconds. This close loss has fueled the team’s resolve, especially for the seniors in 2023.

A Commitment to Excellence

Senior four-seat rower Tilden Vaezi shared his thoughts with The Post, saying, “We took that miss to heart and made it our mission to improve.” The commitment paid off as Vaezi’s boat made it to nationals last year, securing a 20th place finish.

The hard work has culminated in a record-breaking year for Port Rowing. This season, the elite program will send 46 athletes to compete in nine events at the upcoming Youth National Championships, starting June 12 in Sarasota, Florida. This is nearly double the number of participants from last year, emphasizing a growing hunger for success among the athletes.

Dedication in Practice

“The dedication is evident,” Vaezi stated. “We spend about three hours a day, six days a week practicing.” This intense training atmosphere fosters a sense of community among the team members, with the environment elevating everyone’s confidence levels. Senior coxswain Tea Cotronis highlighted the team spirit, emphasizing, “Knowing your teammates are putting in the same effort makes practice easier and more enjoyable.”

An Inclusive Team Culture

Port Rowing, based in Hempstead Harbor, attracts young athletes from across Long Island, not just from Paul D. Schreiber High School. With a mix of middle school and high school students, the club creates a welcoming environment for all interest levels.

Rising Stars

This year, the team has remarkable stories of growth and achievement:

• Lauren Marino, a field hockey and lacrosse standout, only picked up rowing two years ago but rapidly became a key team player. After struggling initially, she quickly excelled and earned a spot in the nationals last year, rowing in the two seat of a girls four shell. Marino will continue her rowing career at Notre Dame.

• Cotronis, who felt out of place in traditional sports, found her niche in rowing. “I wouldn’t want to compete with anyone else but this team,” she said, as she prepares to head to the University of Wisconsin.

Thriving in Challenging Conditions

Head coach Pat Clary attributes the team’s rapid success to their resilience. Training takes place in tough conditions on Hempstead Harbor, known for its choppy waters. “We practice in one of the hardest environments possible, and the kids show up every day and give it their all,” he noted.

Overcoming Adversity

• Clary humorously pointed out that other teams often struggle with conditions that Port athletes have grown accustomed to, saying, “For us, rough water is just another Tuesday practice.” This tough-love approach fosters growth and prepares the athletes for competitive events.

• The team’s journey will lead them to Florida, where they will brave the competition with a seasoned crew. Coaches Clary and Aaron Bosgang will transport their boats alongside those from a Westchester team, marking an important logistical challenge for the record-setting number of athletes participating.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

As the Youth National Championships approach, the Port Rowing team stands united, fueled by past disappointments and current achievements. Their commitment to hard work, camaraderie, and determination serves as an inspiration to aspiring rowers everywhere. The story of Port Rowing is not just about races; it’s about building a community and proving that with grit and teamwork, anything is possible.

For more information on rowing and youth sports, please check out resources like the US Rowing and Youth Rowing Association to learn more about how to get involved.