Alisson Galay '25 Recruiting Profile

In the vast sports universe, many athletes approach their disciplines with a light and fun focus. However, my perspective goes beyond mere enjoyment; it is a voracious craving for victory. At 18 years old, hailing from the Dominican Republic, my journey in the sports arena has been shaped by a story of overcoming challenges and a passion that blossomed on American soil.

Before landing in the United States, rowing was nothing more than an unfamiliar term in my life. Although I had participated in other varsity-level sports, it was in the American waters that I discovered my true calling. Rowing not only became a sport for me; it transformed into a way of life that redefined my perspective on success and dedication.

In my first months on American soil, I faced the task of adapting to a new culture and language. Despite my experience in other collegiate sports, rowing presented itself as a completely novel challenge. Overcoming the learning curve was tough, but I found that difficulty only fueled my determination. Each day on the water became a lesson, an opportunity to grow and overcome obstacles I had never faced before.

What began as a physical activity soon became an obsession. The turning point came with my first victory in a rowing competition. Experiencing the euphoria of winning, the sensation of crossing the finish line first, became an addiction that I craved to experience over and over again. That first victory not only represented a sporting achievement; it was the spark that ignited the flame of my love for rowing.

The addiction to rowing is not limited to the pursuit of trophies and medals but extends to the emotional connection with the sport. It is the constant quest for personal improvement, challenging oneself with every stroke. Each competition is an opportunity to relive that addictive feeling of winning, a motivation that propels my early mornings at 4:30 a.m. and my evening training sessions.

In summary, my story is not just that of an athlete seeking triumph; it is the narrative of an 18-year-old from the Dominican Republic who found in rowing not only a sport but a passion that has transformed her life. The addiction to rowing lies not only in the competition but in the constant desire for self-improvement and the insatiable thirst to once again experience the glorious victory that turns every effort into a unique and addictive experience.