Growing up half Scottish, sophomore rower Jordan Watson was more interested in highland dance than rowing.

At the age of 8, she would go to the Highland games with her dad. Her dad asked if she was interested in dancing and her answer was yes, which led to her participating in highland dance for nine years.

 “I feel like overall, dancing helped me be successful at rowing. With the power and rhythm needed for one single dance, I was able to use dancing to become a more powerful rower,” she said.

For Watson, her brother served as a role model and the source of her initial interest in rowing.

“From the beginning I have always looked up to my brother, watching him row inspired me to row, and maybe become successful one day,” Watson said. “I knew if I rowed I could actually be successful.”

Along her journey to success, Watson has made a splash at WSU. She was initially interested in the school because of the people she knew; having great connections benefitted her in her goal to row beyond high school.

“They were recruiting at the time, so I contacted the coaches and came [to Pullman] for a visit and I liked it,” she said.

She had just come back from the Junior World’s tournament in Bulgaria, and one day later had to drive to Pullman. Even with a rough start, she managed to stay afloat with the warm welcome of her teammates.

Now that she’s a Cougar, she’s focused on reaching her goals.

“I want to increase my rhythm and improve my erg scores,” she said.  “I want to get faster in the water and improve my strength on the erg. I also want the team to remain consistent and make it to nationals once again.”

On the water, Watson is striving to be great and concentrating on the success of her team. On dry land, she said she’s living a fulfilling life and is focused on her future, with no intentions of looking back.

“Honestly, I would do the same thing, I have no regrets,” she said. “I would maybe see my family more, but I don’t think I need any more.”