University of Tennessee Athletics
LADY VOL ROWING DIARY - SHANNON McMAHON
May 20, 2002 | Rowing
May 20, 2002
Once again it's time to close out another year of rowing at Tennessee. The only part different about this year is that this is my last. After being a member of the Lady Vol Rowing Team for four years it hardly seems like it is time to move on. So much has changed on this team since I began as a freshman a few short years ago.
Continuing my rowing career at Tennessee after four years of high school rowing was a whole new world for me. I was surprised at the level of dedication at the college level but intrigued at what I could accomplish in my four years. The years in between I saw the team take steps towards becoming a national contender and enjoyed watching my teammates push for a higher level both individually and as a team. Every little stride we made along the way was a step in the right direction and I had a lot of fun seeing us make improvements. We are not there yet but I know that the team will be someday soon. Of course there are the times that will be remembered forever that occurred along the way. I will never forget our first training trip to Florida, making the Grand Finals for the first time at Midwest Rowing Championships as a freshman, or winning the Head of the Charles. All the memories of the past four years flood my mind as I think back of where we have been and where the team is going in the years to come.
My final year as a senior in the program has been full of many different emotions. I am proud of where the team has gone over the past four years and am excited to see the continued progress after I leave. On the other hand I am sad to leave a sport that I have truly fallen in love with and the best group of friends and teammates that anyone could ever wish for! Rowing has taught me much more than how to move a boat. It had taught me that being a winner means turning your losses into lessons. I have learned how to be a leader without having to be in the limelight to do it. The lessons I have learned as a member of this team are perhaps the most valuable ones I will ever learn. They will make me a better employee, friend, daughter, wife, and mother. I am forever blessed to have been a Lady Vol and wish my teammates and coaches the best now and always! May the oars be with you. . .
