Darby Smiley '21 Recruiting Profile

Hi, my name is Darby Smiley. I am a hard working natural leader that has remarkable problem solving abilities in and outside of a boat. I have been rowing for three years and this is my first year coxing.  Although I am a fairly new coxswain I have already gained the support and respect from my peers due to my constant want and succession of improvement. As a rower, I was always in bow seat. This allowed my transfer into the coxswain's seat very smooth.  When rowing I was able to adapt to any situation including learning advanced skills in sculling and a sweeping of port and starboard side, this is reflected in my coxswain skills. I enjoy everything about rowing from teaching young kids technique to aggressively coxing the varsity team in hard pieces and races. My coaches enjoy my outgoing attitude and natural leadership abilities so much that I am occasionally trusted to be an assistant coach for the younger rowers when I am not on water. People on my team often say that I am the glue that keeps everyone together, acting as a mentor to others, a mediator in disputes, and a happy cheerleader to all (including my competition).