Young Athletes Find Success and Camaraderie in Rowing with Asheville Youth Rowing Association

Asheville Youth Rowing Association Prepares Young Athletes for College Rowing Careers

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — The Asheville Youth Rowing Association is making waves as several young North Carolina athletes gear up to head off to college this fall to pursue their passion for rowing. The association emphasizes the importance of teamwork and synchronization in achieving their goals on the water.

One of the standout athletes, Louise Coates, who rows stroke seat, discovered her love for rowing after a friend encouraged her to join the team during her freshman year of high school. Transitioning from soccer to rowing, Coates found a sense of self-achievement and mental strength through the sport, building connections with her teammates along the way.

For Madeline Halfacre, rowing has become an escape from the stresses of everyday life. As the women’s crew captain, Halfacre values the opportunity to support her teammates and be a driving force for success within the team.

Emerson Linthicum, another senior rower, acknowledges the challenges that come with rowing but believes the rewards are well worth it. Rowing has allowed Linthicum to become more confident and the best version of herself, shaping her into the person she is today.

All three seniors, Coates, Halfacre, and Linthicum, are dedicated to their craft, practicing six days a week to hone their skills. They will continue their rowing careers in college, with Coates heading to Virginia Tech, Halfacre to Stetson University, and Linthicum to the University of Kansas.

The Asheville Youth Rowing Association accepts athletes as young as 12 years old, providing a platform for aspiring rowers to develop their skills and pursue their dreams of collegiate rowing. With rowing becoming increasingly popular for women, opportunities for scholarships through Title IX are opening doors for young female athletes to excel in the sport.