I am currently part of my school rowing team, and I cox the Girls’ 8. My role is steering the boat, motivating the crew and when I settle into my seat at the end of the boat and put on my microphone, I am suddenly in charge of all eight girls.

Many people probably think that sport and theatre have nothing in common, however I wholeheartedly disagree. Having participated in school plays since I was small, acting has given me the confidence to pursue the sport that I have grown to love. In order to be a successful cox, you need to use your voice with clarity, and your confidence in making decisions on the water needs to shine through. When I have performed on stage, it has not always gone to plan, so I have had to improvise. This is very much like when you cox as your race strategy does not always go smoothly, and you have to make quick changes.

Furthermore, I love the stage-craft aspect of the theatre and I have often helped paint and build sets for productions or put together costumes. The skill of building and fixing things has definitely come in handy when we need to fix riggers or tighten footplates!

As with performing in a theatre, people do come to watch our races on rivers and lakes, so we have our own ‘riverside’ audience. It is always appreciated when we are supported and praised by those in our school community, and as when performing a play, I do think about the enjoyment people get from watching our team compete.

In summary, I think that participating in plays, both on stage and behind the scenes has contributed to making me a more confident and resourceful individual who is very much a team player!

Alexandria
Youth Board Member