Rowing, often regarded as one of the most demanding sports, requires not only physical endurance but also fortitude, discipline and teamwork. At Murray State, these qualities are in full display as student-athletes like Nathanial Miracle, Makenna Neville, Madison Harrigan and Aaron Ring push themselves both in the water and in their academics. Together, they represent the heart of a rowing team that’s growing in both skill and camaraderie, despite challenges.

The team has seen significant growth this year, thanks in part to its strong leadership and the dedication of its athletes. Senior Rower and Team President, Ring, is quick to reflect on the team’s progress.

“This season has been the best I’ve been a part of in my three and a half years on the team,” Ring said.“We’ve been able to take home some medals and are really coming together as a team.”

As the president, Ring plays a crucial role in managing the team’s logistics and motivating his teammates. Despite his busy schedule balancing school, rowing and a job, he remains focused on the team’s success, often putting rowing first.

“It’s tough, but I’ve always been used to doing a lot at once,” Ring said. “Rowing comes first for me.”

For Harrigan, senior public relations major and team secretary, this season has been about watching her teammates grow.

“My favorite part of this season has been watching the novices grow into their love of the sport and watching them become stronger athletes,” Harrigan said.

Harrigan has combined her passion for rowing with her skills in public relations, managing the team’s social media and helping to boost team morale both online and in person.

While the team has had its share of successes, it faces challenges that come with being a smaller team with fewer resources than some of its competitors. Neville, sophomore Pre-veterinary science major, said she believes the team could improve its fundraising efforts to ensure they can continue competing at a high level.

“We could definitely set up more fundraisers to raise money for the team,” Neville said.

Another area of growth for the team is developing greater stamina and cohesion. Miracle, a newcomer who joined the team in January, recognizes the challenges that come with being a novice.

“We’re on the verge of getting better each day, just need a little push,” he said.

Miracle, who previously wasn’t involved in rowing, credits his decision to join the team to his friend and fellow teammate, Bode Russell.

“I saw how much he enjoyed it and decided to give it a try. No regrets,” Miracle said, reflecting on his decision to join the team.

One of the biggest lessons for all the athletes has been the development of mental toughness—learning how to stay focused and positive, even after setbacks. For Neville, mental toughness means not giving up after a loss.

“If you give up after one loss, you’ll never get past it,” Neville said.

For Harrigan, staying motivated during tough times comes from remembering her “why”—the reasons she started rowing and the people who support her.

“When things get tough, I think of my teammates and my family,” Harrigan said. “I also think about why I started—staying active in a community that fosters personal growth and high achievement.”

Ring echoes the sentiment, emphasizing that losses are a natural part of the sport.

“What’s important is learning from them and improving,” Ring said. “This growth mindset permeates the entire team, whether it’s a sophomore like Neville striving to improve her time or a senior like Harrigan focusing on overcoming mental blocks during competition.”

The athletes of Murray State Rowing also acknowledge the deep sense of community within the team. For Miracle, being a part of the team has strengthened his relationships and helped him form bonds with people he never expected to be close with.

“It’s been amazing making new friends,” Miracle said. As a team, they support each other both on and off the water, with veterans like Ring helping guide the younger athletes through the ups and downs of college athletics.

As the team looks toward the future, their journey is one of continuous growth—both in their athletic abilities and as individuals. Whether it’s the leadership of veterans like Ring, the dedication of newcomers like Miracle, or the unwavering support of teammates like Neville and Harrigan, the team is united in its pursuit of excellence.