Heading into the 2025 Women’s Season Finale
Heading into the postseason, we had the opportunity to check in with varsity member Lupita Nieto (LN) in regard to her team dynamic, mindset, and goals heading into the Western Intercollegiate Rowing Association Championships (WIRA). Lupita has been a central powerhouse to the Beach squad, bringing consistency and grit to every stroke, and will be entered in both the varsity 8+ and 2- races.
“Alexandra Pestolis (AP) Hi Lupita! It’s great to have you, thanks for taking the time to meet. First things first, how are we feeling heading into the postseason? How would you describe the team’s dynamic so far?
LN: We’re excited to head to WIRA, there’s a total of 4 varsity boats entered on the women’s side and we’re ready to get after it. The team’s dynamic is very tenacious and full of grit. We are very competitive, but we are a very welcoming team and push each other to do our best.
AP: Love it. Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of your team or yourself this season?
LN: A moment I felt especially proud of this season was the Berg Cup with my team. I think we all really came together and rowed the best we have so far. We went into the race just wanting to give our all and that’s exactly what we did.
AP: What’s been your approach to leadership this year, and how has it evolved since the start of the season?
LN: My approach to leadership is to lead by my actions, I always aspire to get a little better everyday. I try to find activities that help me improve in rowing and try to be as consistent as possible.
This season I have learned to have a lot of patience with myself. I am my own biggest critic so it can be difficult to work through the funks, but I keep working hard to improve.
AP: What role does recovery and mental focus play in your preparation?
LN: Recovery and mental focus is very important for my preparation. I make sure I stretch and stay hydrated. In terms of mental focus, I try not to let my negative emotions linger for days. I try to come into each day with a positive mentality so that I could have an efficient practice or race.
When I have a tough practice, I definitely let myself feel out my emotions and then go back to practice the next day with a positive mindset. The mindset of ‘today is going to be better’ is pretty foundational for me.
AP: What kind of legacy or culture are you hoping to build within the team?
LN: As a team, the legacy we want to build is one of a hard working group. We want to make women’s rowing a team to be proud of, a team that people would want to join with a competitive edge.
AP: All great things, best of luck heading into this weekend.
LN: Thank you!”
Stay tuned to catch Beach Crew compete this weekend in Sacramento, times will be advised.
