See How She Got Started in the OUA

Anchored in the efforts to spotlight Ontario University Athletics (OUA) student-athletes, the initiative See How She Got Started showcases and tells the story of how some of the conference’s talented student-athletes first got involved in sport and have made their way to the varsity stage on which they currently shine.  It is also hoped that their stories can inspire young athletes to aspire to compete in varsity-level sports.

Meet OUA Student-Athlete Regan Mania

University - 

Trent University

Sport -

Rowing

Year of Eligibility -

3rd Year

Hometown - 

Toronto, Ontario 

Program of Study - 

Sociology 

How did you first get involved in your sport?

I got involved in rowing when one of my friends convinced me in grade nine to try the sport.

What most interested you about your sport that made you want to pursue it at a high level?

I think what interested me the most about rowing is the fact that the sport gives you the opportunity to ascend to a high level very quickly. 

Was there a specific moment/experience that led you to believe you could compete in your sport at a high level, and if so, what was it?

I think the one specific moment/experience that made me believe I could compete at a high level in rowing happened when I medalled at the Head of the Charles. 

What is your fondest memory/experience of being involved in your sport thus far?

Like my answer to the prior question, I would definitely say my most fondest memory/experience would be medalling at the Head of the Charles. 

Is there someone who inspires you to continue to pursue your sport at this high level (i.e., coach, professional athlete, family member, etc.) and what makes them an inspiration to you?

I would say that the one person who inspires me to continue in rowing is my dad. He has always supports me.

What excites you most about continuing your athletic journey at the varsity level within the OUA?

I think what excites me the most about having the chance to continue my rowing journey at the varsity level is the opportunity to race at OUAs. 

What is/are some of the more unique aspect(s) of your sport that others may not know about? 

I think a unique aspect of rowing that others might not know is the fact that rowing is all legs.      

If someone else was looking to start playing your sport, what one piece of advice would you give them to get them started?

If there was someone who was looking to start in the sport of rowing, I would tell them to go slow and focus on technique over raw power.

What is one critical thing that you do to try to continue to experience improvement within your sport (i.e., specific drill/exercise, training regimen, routine, etc.)?

One critical thing I do to try to continue to experience improvement is rowing in the 1x.

What would you say to your 10-year-old self about playing and staying in sport?

I would tell my 10-year-old self that there's a whole sport that you're going to fall in love with and you'll push yourself for your teammates.    

Is there one strategy that you find works well for you in creating a positive student/athlete balance in your life?

I get to row early in the morning most mornings. So, in my mind, I've already started my day on the right foot. 

SeeWhatSheCanDo

Head to the SWSCD Athlete Advisor, your online athletic business directory. Find, rate and review programs, local community offerings and businesses that will help you do your thing.  

Start a group around a physical activity in your neighbourhood. Explore events. Check out our SWSCD Hub.

Look for advice, stories, news and more on our Rowing activity page.  

Have a sport, recreation or physical activity accomplishment you'd like to celebrate and shout out through SWSCD?  Become a SWSCD member and share your story directly on SeeWhatSheCanDo. Or, simply add the hashtag #seewhatshecando to your public social media posts and SWSCD can help you inspire others around you.