Published on July 31, 2024
Since graduating from Hunter Valley Grammar School in 2020, Sarah Abrams has embarked on a remarkable journey that has taken her across continents and into the heart of competitive rowing. Shortly after leaving HVGS, Sarah traveled to the United States to begin her rowing career at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas. There, she spent the first three years of her degree studying for a Bachelor of Science in Applied Physiology and Health Management. During her time at SMU, Sarah and her team consistently made history at the NCAA Championships, improving their standings with each appearance. By her final year at SMU, the team placed 9th overall, with the 1V8 crew achieving a 7th place finish and winning their petite final, marking the highest placement ever for an SMU crew.
However, Sarah’s journey took a new turn when her head coach, Kim Cupini and assistant coach, MJ Keys, moved to the University of Tennessee (UTK) in Knoxville to build a new rowing program. After much deliberation, Sarah decided to follow her coaches to UTK for her final year of university to continue pursuing her rowing dreams. This transition came with its own set of challenges, but Sarah adapted and thrived. She is now set to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Sports Management with a minor in Business Studies. Under Kim’s transformative guidance, the UTK rowing program flourished, culminating in a historic 3rd place finish at the NCAA Rowing Championships. The 1V8 and 2V8 crews both placed 3rd, while the 1V4 crew secured 5th place. Sarah describes this achievement as one of the most rewarding experiences of her life made possible by the support of her teammates and the empowering culture at UTK.
Following this successful season, Sarah was invited to trial for the U23 Australian Team in Princeton. The selection process was demanding yet fulfilling. Her dedication paid off when she secured a spot on the Australian Team in the W8+ crew, set to compete in Canada later this year. This accomplishment represents the culmination of years of hard work and early morning training sessions. Sarah’s journey from learning to row at HVGS to competing on the world stage has been transformative, filled with valuable lessons and lasting relationships.
Reflecting on her time at HVGS, Sarah emphasizes the importance of continually pursuing excellence and greatness. She credits the school with teaching her the necessity of self-confidence and the resilience to overcome challenges. She highlights the influence of two individuals, Mr. Robinson and her Head of Year, Miss Osmond, who provided unwavering support and accountability throughout her high school years. They played pivotal roles in her development, pushing her to excel as both an athlete and a student, and were integral to her success and growth.
A cherished memory from HVGS for Sarah is being appointed Watagan House Captain. Having applied for various leadership roles over the years without success, being made House Captain was a moment of immense pride for her.
Sarah’s greatest accomplishment to date is making the U23 Australian Rowing Team. Representing Australia has always been a dream, and achieving this goal is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. Sarah notes, “Making this team makes all those 5am wake ups before school worth it. Every sacrifice I made led to this moment!”
Sarah lives by the quote, “Hold the vision and trust the process” a mantra that reflects her journey and her approach to life and sport. Her story is one of resilience, dedication and the pursuit of excellence, embodying the values and spirit of Hunter Valley Grammar School.