Matt Kelly
Junior at Shorewood High School
When/Why began rowing:
During my seventh grade year, my mom taught Joe Cincotta's daughter at her preschool. As we got to know Joe more (and seeing the Social Network) I realized it was the best sport for me.
Future plans:
For future college plans, I would love to go to Univ. of Florida. My dad went to school there and I was born there.
Favorite aspect of rowing:
Favorite thing about rowing is that it defines people in a good way, for me at least. It's shows anybody that you are committed to hard work. Other than boxing, rowing is by far the hardest sport ever made and it's helped me take on bigger things.
Favorite rowing season & why:
I love the winter. It's a time where things are narrowed down. Don't have to worry about the rush or set in the boat and no issues with the weather. 95% of the time you don't have to worry about anybody else but yourself and how you can get stronger.
What motivates you to work hard:
What motivates me the most is reaching my potential and goals. I feel that I have a lot of potential I don't want to walk out knowing I didn't take advantage of it
Favorite race & why:
My favorite race has to be the 1000m sprint in Chicago. It is a race many people enjoy watching because we race one on one with another team instead of racing against time in the fall races
Interests/hobbies outside of practice:
As one of my interests is that I love collecting vinyls and John Mayer. I love his music. Outside of rowing, I run a club at school where we go down to Clarke Street Elementary school and help kids with their homework
Proudest accomplishment in your life so far:
Well for rowing, breaking 7 minutes on my 2k was my proudest moment in this sport.
Role model & why:
I have a lot but in rowing, I have to say I looked up to James Lueken a lot in my earlier years in this sport. He used to be our team captain. He was a good rower and he had a lot of dedication and I respected that
Interesting fact about yourself:
I have the fattest cat in Wisconsin
Favorite quote:
"There's always money in the banana stand."-George Bluth, Arrested Development