Bridget Reese ’24 is a four-year Senior from Jupiter, Florida. She is co-captain of the Rowing team and is committed to row at the University of Virginia next year. Last year, Reese placed 9th in the NEIRA Rowing Championship, and this past summer, she competed at the U.S. Rowing Club Nationals.
Co-Captain Leighton Smith ’24 said, “Bridget is an exceptional athlete, which we can all see from how much time she spends working on her craft. This program feeds off of the potential of athletes in the community and those stubborn enough to stick with it see incredible success—Bridget is one of these people.”
Head Coach Wayne Berger said, “Bridget is a great leader, as a captain this year and a Junior last year. I’m excited for her to continue rowing at a Division 1 level and I know she has a lot of potential to grow even more at Virginia.”
How did you start rowing?
I started rowing in my Lower Mid year. I played JV Field Hockey in the fall and did lifting during the winter. Soon after, our former coach, Victoria McGee sought me out and invited me to join rowing.
After my first season, I fell in love with it and decided that I wanted to continue with rowing for my athletic journey.
The friends that I made throughout rowing are extremely important to me, especially my best friend, Leighton Smith ’24. We’ve been doing this together throughout our entire lives here. The bond that I built with the team also contributed to my staying with this sport.
What are some of your favorite memories with the team?
My favorite moments were when we were in New Englands last year and the year before that—we came together and put our hearts and souls on the line. We raced our hardest for the end of our season. Racing with the eight girls was the best.
Who are some role models for you while on the team?
When I first joined, my captain, Emily Bukowski ’22, became my role model. She helped push me through the mental obstacles and difficulties we faced throughout our time rowing.
What else do you wish to accomplish in your Senior year?
We’ve gotten really close to the Grand Finals [of the NEIRA Rowing Championship] and we want to push ourselves to make it there and compete.
What made you choose the University of Virginia?
I knew that I wanted to go to a school somewhere in the Northeast or South. I ended up looking at a bunch of schools, but when I went to UVA, the tour went well and when I got to stay with a couple of rowers, I fell in love with it.
What advice would you give to current rowers?
Look for the fun in it. Racing is a really fun part of the sport. Even though it can become mentally grueling at some times, push through. Stick with it and enjoy meeting great people.
