Teamwork: 4 Lessons I've Learned Through Rowing

Throughout my seven years of rowing experience, I’ve learned one truly valuable skill: teamwork. Whether that be in the boat or on land, I have found profound value in working together with my teammates. These skills are now invaluable to me, as I can apply them not only to my sport, but to school, work and everyday life.

LESSON 1: Get in Synch:
In rowing, one of the keys to success in the boat is being able to synchronize as a crew. Being capable of taking every stroke correctly and together is a vital part of any successful boat. Following one another and working as a unit is a great lesson for everyone, especially in the workplace. Being able to collaborate with others and work as a group is important in any business setting.

LESSON 2: Build Bonds:
Another form of teamwork that rowing has taught me is how to create close bonds with my fellow rowers, and how important those bonds can be when it comes to success. The better cohesion our boat has, the more we’re capable of success. Is raw strength important? Is determination important? Of course. However, without a connection with your teammates, there can be unwanted conflict that will only hold you back. The same is true in the workplace. While working on a project or a committee with your co-workers, it’s important that you get along with your teammates.

LESSON 3: Keep Passion Alive:
Although rowing has been a passion of mine throughout my seven years involved in the sport, there have been times when I asked, “Why do I do this? What draws me back in?” Practices are long, the work is hard, and tensions can be high. What makes all of this hardship worth it is remembering the moments that drew me into the sport in the first place. This lesson has certainly transfered into my everyday life. Work, school and day to day tasks can become mundane or frustrating, but looking inside myself and finding the passion that originally lit my internal fire helps me to stay motivated in everything I do.

LESSON 4: Friendships Grow Through Shared Adversity:
​Physically working out everyday and racing next to the same people I call my friends has showed me that mutual adversity can create friendships that are stronger than the average connection. By working together through hard times, I have learned to motivate and support my friends more than any other experience I’ve ever had. The same is true in the workplace. Completing a shared project can bring you and your co-workers together, not only by building memories but also by creating a shared sense of accomplishment that will last way beyond the completion of one’s project.

Synchronization creates success on and off the water. Overall, rowing really has taught me many skills that I apply everyday in my world outside of athletics. I encourage anyone to try rowing and learn exactly what I’m talking about, as I truly feel that everyone can benefit from spending at least a little time rowing in a boat and learning how to sync up with those around you.

​-Elliot Rieth, Go Scavenger Hunts Intern