The Penn varsity lightweight crew team will open its season tomorrow against Rutgers bearing in mind goals that extend far beyond the 2,000 meters of the race.
"We all entered this season very ready to bring pride back to Penn lightweight rowing," senior captain Tevis Jacobs said.
This has been a year of significant growth for the Quakers and Saturday will be an opportunity both for veterans to rise as leaders and for sophomores "to step up quickly and adjust to racing on the varsity level."
Rutgers, a team that has made it to the finals of Eastern Sprints four out of the last five seasons, will be tough competition for Penn.
"Rutgers is one of those teams that can really surprise you," sophomore Mike King said.
Last year the Quakers lost to Rutgers despite feeling confidant that they would win.
"We will not make the same mistake again," Jacobs said, referring to last year's race against the Scarlet Knights.
Since the only races that really count in the league are the Eastern Sprints and International Racing Association regattas, the short term goal for tomorrow is to send a message to the other teams in the league.
"The message we'll be sending is that Penn is a competitor to be feared," junior John Macknin said. "And we'll send that message by being better racers in terms of responding to the crucial racing moments."
Learning to respond to those moments is something that the Quakers have been working on throughout winter training, in addition to building enthusiasm and cohesiveness among the team members.
"The team is coming together very well, thanks in large part to the patient and skillful leadership of coach Mike Irwin," Jacobs said.
Penn has overcome the obstacles of a few short-term back injuries, but all members of the team will be healthy for the race. In addition to being physically fit, mental toughness will be a key factor for the Quakers tomorrow. Penn will rely not only on the man-power of the rowers but also on junior coxswain Mark Albert, a "strong motivating force for the varsity boat," according to Jacobs.
The Red and Blue are also counting on its enthusiasm and strong mindset.
"The greatest strength of the team comes in our positive attitude and our willingness to do whatever it takes," Jacobs said.
And of courses a love for the sport and the team doesn't hurt.
"There's nothing like getting out there against another team and butting heads," Mackinin said. "I'm excited to get back to racing."
"There is a tangible excitement on the team with every practice," Jacobs confirmed.
"There is a feeling that we are turning the Penn lightweight team around and returning it to its former glory. We understand that it is a long and difficult process, but we look forward to this Saturday's race as a first step."
