A popular sport for students to participate in is crew. Since this and many other sports are not offered at the school, athletes are able to join teams outside of the school, such as Space Coast Crew.

“The group of guys I hang out with at practice is the same friend group I have at school, too, so I’ve definitely created a bond with them,” freshman Joey Judge said.

The main objective of the crew is to get eight motions exactly in sync to row the boat as fast as possible. The Space Coast Crew practices five times a week in Indian Harbor.

“Our team’s main goal is to get faster and stronger and to win races. Since we all have the same goals, we get along really well as friends,” freshman Sawyer Lewis, who has been rowing for five years, said.

Crew is not only a hobby for some of them, but it is a way into college. Some colleges scout crew members, so talented rowers may have an advantage in admissions decisions, so long as the athlete meets minimum academic standards.

“I believe that I will continue to row through high school and maybe after if I have the opportunity to, Judge said. “Crew is a really rewarding experience and I’ve learned so much from my coaches, but also my teammates.”

Crew is considered a year-round sport, but most official meets happen between March and May.

Space Coast Crew participated in Southeast Regionals on May 10. They had been training since January for the event.

“We put a lot of effort and time into training for this event,” freshman Henry Baker said. “Our group has also become really close to each other, so I feel like we just [need to] continue working as a team.”

By Brianna Schoenrock