Meet The Team: Kieanna Sorn, Executive Assistant & Event Coordinator
Welcome Kieanna!
Kieanna is no stranger to rowing; she was named the 2017 Junior Female Sculler of the Year for Rowing Canada Aviron and achieved Bronze at the 2017 World Rowing Junior Championships before going on to row as an undergrad at UW.
Kieanna will be assisting us on the development side, fostering corporate sponsorships, and helping athletes in the Camp Lucy and PYR programs as a coach.
How long have you been part of the GPRF?
Since February 27, 2023
How does your position impact the GPRF?
I work both in development and coaching and I love being able to experience the various levels of the GPRF. I work on developing resources for the organization so that we can continue to run the various programs we offer. I also coach the youth programs bringing my experiences to the boathouse and supporting the youth through their journey in rowing.
Where and when did you start rowing?
I started rowing in 2016 under the Rowing Canada development program out of Burnaby Lake, Canada.
What is your favourite memory of playing a sport or being on a team?
My favourite memory of being on a team was my freshman year in the Washington Varsity Four. My boat had an amazing bond which made competing at the NCAAs such a memorable experience. We had complete trust in one another and made the best out of less-than-favorable conditions. Something that set this boat apart from others is that there was never a dull moment and we never failed to make each other laugh.
Who inspires you the most in sports?
I admire how Serena Williams tackled numerous barriers in sport and still managed to be one of the greatest athletes in the world. She is someone that was very talented at her sport. I love how she used sport to amplify her strengths, not define her as a person.
In life?
My mom is one of the strongest people I know. When she wants something, she does anything she can to get it. She has had a lot of adversity in her life, but I love how she remains compassionate and selfless, and I strive to embody her every day.
What advice would you give to someone considering rowing for the first time?
Do not be hard on yourself, never compare yourself to others, and find your unique relationship with the sport. Rowing is beautiful because it has so many parts to it which means that every individual has a different experience.
Do you have a favourite workout?
I actually played Ice hockey prior to rowing and I love to rollerblade when the weather is nice. I was always a big fan of diversifying my movement to prevent injury, so I love to get in a rotation of a number of activities.
