UCF Rowing rising senior Abbie Pritchard answered some questions for UCFKnights.com from her home in Wellington, New Zealand about how she started rowing and more.
When and how did you start rowing?
I began rowing back in 2014 while I was still at high school. A friend of mine suggested to me that I come down with her to the local club and give it a go. From the first training I did there I was immediately hooked on the sport!
Why did you choose to come to UCF?
My decision to come to UCF was based on a number of factors. I wanted to go somewhere that had a lot of pride in their athletic department overall, and a place where there was still room to grow and be a part of something bigger. Having a nice warm and sunny climate was also a big bonus too!
What has been the biggest adjustment between New Zealand and the United States?
The thing that shocked me the most about America was the sheer size of it all, from the buildings to the number of people everywhere. It is still mind-blowing to me as I went to a high school with 500 students, at first it was scary to think that there can be that many people in just one class here at UCF.
What's your favorite memory with rowing so far?
That's such a tough thing to pick but any time we travel as a team is so much fun, I love the thrill of racing season when we all pack our bags and hop on the plane or bus. I have so many wonderful memories of being on the road with my team that I never would have experienced if it wasn't for rowing.
What's something that people don't know about UCF Rowing but they should?
There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes here at UCF, especially with it being such a big team. We are very lucky to have such hardworking and dedicated coaching, academic and administrative staffs here to support us!
In her first two seasons with the Knights, Pritchard helped UCF to a pair of American Athletic Conference titles. She has also been part of UCF's top 20 finishes at the 2018 and 2019 NCAA Championships.