Ben Dines '15
SCB: How did you stay in rowing shape over the summer? How did you unwind/relax?
BP: Like all of my fellow teammates I made sure to follow my coach's training plan. Everyday Coach John sends us the workout for the day. By the end of the week we post our training logs to our Facebook group. Most of our workouts have consisted of cardiovascular endurance training ranging anywhere from 20-90 minutes along with strength training. While I have been quite busy this summer, I have found time to unwind with my family, friends, and my dog. I have also had the chance to catch up on TV shows and read books, something I don't usually have enough time for.
SCB: You're going to be a sophomore this year at SCU. What are a few of the most important things you learned last year that you would pass on to incoming freshmen?
BP: The biggest lesson I learned from last year was the importance of time management. College and high school are not the same. You are going to have more homework, more distractions, and more time commitment to your team or club. Make sure to make a routine for yourself and stick to it. Once you establish an efficient routine, you will do just fine.
SCB: If I were considering joining the rowing team, what would you warn me about? What are some of the potential rewards?
BP: Rowing is a tough sport. It tests you both physically and mentally. You have to be willing to challenge yourself and to continually push your limits. While the workouts are grueling, there is so much more to rowing. You are part of a unit. Everyone is working hard to achieve one goal. After hours of practicing together, eating together and racing together you become a family. Not only do you get a second family, but you will know how to challenge yourself in all areas of your life. It teaches you how to become both physically and mentally stronger. Rowing has taught me to never give up and to keep fighting. I can't imagine my college career without my team.
SCB: How do you break through when you hit "the wall" during practice or a race?
BP: I always remind myself that I still have energy. Whenever I want to stop or slow down, I think to myself "is your body failing you?" and the answer has always been no. I also try to think about other athletes who inspire me ranging anywhere from Olympians to my own teammates. Most importantly, I try my best to keep my thoughts positive.
SCB: What are you looking forward to most this year?
BP: I would have to say that I am most looking forward to this upcoming season. We are going to be racing in more regattas (races) than last year and after looking at my teammates' training logs, I think we will have a strong season ahead of us. I have never been to the San Diego Crew Classic so I am very excited to race there this year!
