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Student-Athletes Thank You Letter: Allie Newman '26

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Dear Trinity Women's Rowing Community, 

You are sitting under the bridge at Lake Quinsigamond, the air thick with anticipation. The soft echoes of voices bounce off the water as you and your eight other teammates prepare for the race ahead. The coxswain's calm voice cuts through the tension, steadying the boat as you grip your oar handle tightly. Behind you, the course stretches out, a path waiting to be conquered. The anticipation is electric—your heart races with excitement and nerves—but as soon as the flag drops and the announcer calls "Go!" everything fades away. It's just you, your crew, and the rhythm of the race. Moments like these are a privilege, and I feel so fortunate to experience them as a member of the Trinity Women's Rowing team. 

Rowing is a unique sport, unlike any other. It demands perfect synchronization, where individual effort means little without complete unity. Each stroke relies on trusting your teammates, creating a bond within the crew that is unparalleled in any other athletic pursuit. Being part of this incredible program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Rowing has taught me lessons that extend far beyond the Empacher shell: discipline, accountability, resilience, and teamwork. These skills have shaped who I am and will continue to guide me in every aspect of my life. 

What truly makes the Trinity Women's Rowing team special are the extraordinary experiences we've shared, both on and off the water. My freshman year, racing at the San Diego Crew Classic was a dream come true. Watching our program's growth has been equally inspiring. Last year, our 1V and 2V crews placed third at NCAAs, a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. And then there was Henley: traveling to England to race on the most historic course in the world was an opportunity I never imagined, yet one I will remember forever. These experiences set our program apart, and they wouldn't be possible without the unwavering support of our alumni, friends, and families. 

Our community is special. No other Division III rowing program can match the incredible opportunities we've had, nor the active and engaged alumni network that continues to support us. We feel your impact every single day, knowing that hundreds of supporters have our backs and are cheering us on. This sense of connection and tradition is what makes our team so extraordinary. The friendships we build on this team are not ones that end after graduation but are lifelong relationships that span generations and are built around our love for this grueling, yet incredibly awesome sport. 

As I reflect on my time thus far with Trinity Women's Rowing, I am filled with gratitude. This team is more than just a group of athletes; it's a family. I'm so grateful to be part of a program that is achieving incredible goals, and I look forward to giving back to this community after I graduate, just as so many alumni have done before me. To our alumni, friends, and families: thank you. Your generosity and support make everything we do possible. Whether it's funding our travel to regattas, providing mentorship, or cheering us on from the sidelines, your contributions shape our experiences and help us reach new heights. 

With Gratitude, 

Allie Newman '26 
Trinity Women's Rowing 

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