On Saturday, October 4th, the North Cedar Academy Girls Rowing team took a special trip to the University of Minnesota to experience one of the Midwest’s most exciting fall rowing events – the Head of the Mississippi Regatta.

Surrounded by the energy of collegiate crews and the rhythm of oars slicing through the water, our students had the opportunity to see competitive rowing at the next level. The day was filled with learning, laughter, and inspiration as the team toured the university’s campus and watched dozens of boats line up for races on the iconic Mississippi River.

For many of our rowers, it was their first time attending a collegiate regatta.

“Rowing is a brand new sport that we are offering here at North Cedar Academy,” said rowing coach, Clay Jacobs. “Although we are new to the sport, the students and myself have been having a great time learning and immersing ourselves in the rowing community.”

Coach Jacobs initially reached out to the University of Minnesota Women’s Rowing team a few weeks ago to introduce himself and the budding rowing program at NCA.

“The University of Minnesota coaches were incredibly welcoming and responsive,” said Jacobs. “I’m so glad that we were able to take time this weekend to see collegiate rowing in action – especially at a regatta as iconic as the Head of the Mississippi.”

Coach Jacobs emphasized how valuable the trip was for team development and goal-setting.

“I think it was really special for the girls to see what collegiate women’s rowing looks like up close. It has absolutely given the girls and myself something to aspire to. Rowing has the potential to open up many doors for our student-athletes, so it is an exciting time for our NCA Rowing program.”

North Cedar Academy’s growing rowing program continues to bring students together through teamwork, perseverance, and hard work. Experiences like this reinforce our belief that learning extends far beyond the classroom – whether on campus or on the river.

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