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 Sophia Basile 

University - 

Trent University

 

Sport -

Rowing

 

Year of Eligibility -

3rd Year

 

Hometown - 

Erin, Ontario 

 

Program of Study - 

Forensic Biology 

 

 

How did you first get involved in your sport?

I was introduced to the sport through novice rowing in my first year.

 

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

I think what interests me the most about rowing is both the family atmosphere found around the sport and the amazing coaching that supports our team.

 

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 don't think there was any specific moment or experience. For me, it's the high performance workouts and lifestyle that converted into wins and the drive to be better in myself.  

 

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

My fondest memory would be making the lightweight standards as a varsity athlete. It allowed me to make my coach Ugette Vanderpost proud as she’s seen me grow from my first year onward.

 

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?

My coach Ugette is an amazing role model for me. Not only as a coach, but as an individual too. Coach Ugette has been there for me through the hardest workouts to personal pick-me-ups. She’s has helped me become a better woman and athlete over the years and I owe my winnings and drive for the sport to her.  

 

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

I think what excites me the most is the drive to be better and to be a strong teammate for my boats as work to earn a spot at ouas and cu. 

 

 

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

Rowing isn’t just a 5:30 practice; it’s a lifestyle. It’s the way I eat and sleep to the way I interact with others. It’s a sport that surprises everyone with the amount of time and commitment required to see successful competitive results.     

 

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 is someone who is looking to try rowing, I will tell them to do it. Once you start rowing, you’ll never be able to stop. For me, the team atmosphere at Trent University and the coaching provided changes the whole sport.  

 

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 aspect that I do is to work on my erg* times and technique on the water. These are key components for getting faster and building my anaerobic capabilities for long races. Ultimately, it helps me to learn how to push myself through the hard parts of rowing and racing.

*An ERG (commonly known as a rower) stands for ergometer, a device that measures the amount of work performed. It's designed to mimic the rowing motion that a person creates when in a watercraft but operates on land.

 

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

I would tell my 10-year-old self to start rowing earlier. Now I’m in it forever and I want to compete as a master rower. I would also tell her to follow your goals and continue to push your body to the max. You will see the results and will be so happy with yourself. I’m the strongest and happiest I’ve been because of rowing and have met some of my closest friends through the sport as well.     

 

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

One key strategy has been focusing on time management. It's important as you work to build a schedule and agenda to prioritize school and assignments together with twice-a-day practice training structure. I will also recommend prioritizing rest days and good eating habits to help with creating positive mental health.   

 

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.