This sport literally transformed my kids
In Lake Stevens, WA two young men have found more than just a sport in rowing—they’ve discovered confidence, friendship, and a brighter future.
Mykal and Mason, 13, have thrived in ways their mother, Elli, never anticipated, thanks to their involvement in the sport.
“At 13 years old, they are going through so many changes. I believe it’s important for them to have an outlet for changes, mentally and physically, and overall, I believe in the importance of team building. Staying active and busy and engaged in sports has been one of my top priorities for my boys' growth. NCC has provided all that and more. We have had such a wonderful experience with all the coaches, and kids and I myself have made new friends through these past two seasons.” Elli shares.
It has only been a few months since the teens found rowing, but in that short time they have learned the technique of the sport, raced in two regattas, and found a culture in which they “can play sports and still have fun.”
Data shows that the highest dropout in youth sports happens between 11 and 14 years old. This is attributed to the cost of sports, the increased pressure to perform, and coaches not creating programs that kids want to participate in.
Before rowing, both young men had tried a multitude of sports, including basketball, football, jujitsu, and others. Sadly, too many of these sports felt uber-competitive, and while Mykal and Mason are as interested in the gold medal as any other athlete, what rowing uniquely offered was a chance to be competitive while also having fun.
Picture Credit to North Cascades Crew Team
At North Cascades Crew (NCC), the culture makes all the difference. The coaches, athletes, and parents align with NCC’s values, which focus on the power of rowing to bond people together, enrich their experience, and strengthen their team. There is a sense of camaraderie and community that has been fostered from the top down and team spirit is palpable. Teammate Nick shares he likes being on a team because the athletes “win together, lose together, and get better together - it’s like a big family.”
At this age, young athletes’ bodies and brains are developing and the need to exercise for physical and mental health is paramount.
Mykal was a football player before finding crew. Although football has been his passion, he has since shifted to being more passionate about rowing! He has built relationships, fulfilled his competitive spirit, and immensely enjoys the sport.
Rowing gave Mykal a path to quench his thirst for competition and connect with others - he particularly likes the challenge of stabilizing the rowing shell when the water is turbulent. He shares that his first race “was wonderful and surprisingly we got first place!” Mykal enjoys rowing with other people, especially when they have a good sense of humor. Outside of rowing, he’s working on getting stronger; he wants to build his biceps and endurance so that next year, he can do more push-ups, and carry the boat a little easier.
Mason has had his own transformative experience on the team. Rowing has provided him with the confidence to step out of his shell and find joy in teamwork. “It’s pretty fun so far. You make friends and have a lot of fun. You get splashed by water a lot - a lot of water.” Water aside, Mason tells us about the benefits he’s found in rowing. “You get stronger together. You form a bond.” Rowing has been impactful in Mason’s life because it has built his confidence and personal growth as he grows into a young man.
Rowing gave both boys the chance to compete again and have fun doing it. For Elli, watching her boys flourish in rowing has been nothing short of life-changing. “This sport literally transformed my kids” she proclaims.
As the family looks excitedly towards next year and the spring season, rowing continues to be more than just a sport —it’s a source of friendships, growth, and endless possibilities.
“I’m just so thankful for this opportunity.”
Picture Credit to North Cascades Crew
