McKenzi Fitzgerald '24 Recruiting Profile

There are two things I bring with me every time I step foot in a boat. Determination and dedication. Three years ago, out of curiosity, I found myself participating in a two-week trial with the Indianapolis Rowing Center. Ultimately, it wasn’t much of a trial. I knew within my first practice that I was committed and had found my passion. To say I worked hard that first year as a novice is an understatement. One of the youngest and definitely the smallest on the team, I was always trying to prove myself. As part of a novice 8 boat, we rowed to a first place finish in our very first regatta at the Head of the Cuyahoga. A week later, short a coxswain, my coach turned to me to fill in for the remainder of the season. It was a no-brainer. At the time I was so short I couldn’t even help effectively carry the boat with my teammates. I proudly coxed the novice girls to an automatic bid at the Head of the Hooch. Despite this, I was determined to row and dedicated myself to training alongside my teammates during the winter season. I have since earned my spot rowing in the varsity boats, medaling at several regattas, and competing at Youth Nationals in Sarasota. I love the feeling of being on the water, dedicating myself to my teammates, and being determined to row flawlessly. Needless to say, I’m ready to bring my determination and dedication to the next level.