University of Minnesota Athletics
Hodnett Prepares for Final Season
9/30/2014 12:00:00 AM | Rowing
Sept. 30, 2014
Story by Lexi Diederich
Going into her final home regatta of her senior year on the University of Minnesota women's rowing team, Lynn Hodnett puts her team first and nostalgia second.
"It'll be strange, but I'm not dwelling on it," Hodnett said. "I know I'll miss the team, but I take things as they come."
Hodnett and the rest of the Gophers kick off their season at home for the Head of the Mississippi on Oct. 5. Coming off of an impressive junior year, Hodnett is expected to continue her success on the water this season. Last year, she was voted First Team All-Big Ten and the team's Most Valuable Player.
Hodnett was flattered to be voted MVP by her team, and even more surprised to be voted First Team by Coach Wendy Davis.
"I was extremely pleased and excited that Wendy chose me for First Team," Hodnett said. "I didn't see that coming."
Davis saw Hodnett come into her own last year, which influenced her decision greatly.
"She was extremely powerful on her own and matched that with the rest of the boat," Davis said.
Beginning her rowing career at sixteen-years-old with the Minnesota Boat Club in St. Paul, rowing has been a part of Hodnett's life for five years. Her work ethic and experience paid off during her freshmen year with the Gophers, when she made top boat. Davis attributes her continued success to a steady progression of strength, fitness and technique.
"She pays equal attention to these three phases," Davis said. "When somebody brings that level of focus, she's going to be successful."
Knowing that her effort is being recognized is invaluable for Hodnett, but she knows that training is always an uphill battle.
"It's not in me to want to be mediocre," Hodnett said. "I'm always trying to improve because I know I'm not perfect and still have issues to work out on the water."
Davis especially appreciates Hodnett's direct nature, which sets her apart from the pack. She remembers one particular day during Hodnett's sophomore year that was greatly appreciated.
"She walked right up to me and said, `just be direct with me,'" Davis said with a laugh. "She's very direct in her studies and life. There's no hidden agenda with Lynn."
Hodnett reflects this direct nature in her ability to take one day at a time, even with her college rowing career nearing the end. Don't ask her about her final days with her team, because she wants to make every moment with them count.
"I want us to go into every race knowing how we race, what we can do and just not worry how it's going to end," Hodnett said.
As one of the veterans on the team, Hodnett loves watching the younger rowers succeed. Her overall attitude for the season is one of a natural leader
"Be in the moment and be proud to row for Minnesota."
Players Mentioned
