BATENGA NAKISOZI – UGANDA
A week of understudy with British Rowing, as part of the WISH programme, was a tremendous privilege. We spent one day at the Performance Development Academy in Bath and two days at the Performance Development Academy for Beach Sprints in Sudland, shadowing four coaches as they carried out their daily routines, observing, learning, and contributing feedback to athletes. The week concluded with the unique opportunity to join the coaching staff of the England and Scotland national rowing teams for two days at the Home International Regatta at Dorney Lake.
This experience has been both eye-opening and mind-expanding. Coming from smaller rowing nations and programs, we learned to trust the process. Observing coaches operating in a well-structured ecosystem, one that has consistently produced success at the World Championships and Olympic Games, was exhilarating. We identified similarities with our own approaches, discovered ways to simplify coaching, and explored how to make training more enjoyable for our athletes. We leave this experience challenged, inspired, and deeply motivated to pursue excellence as coaches.
As the African proverb says, “It takes a village to raise a child.” This could not resonate more strongly. Our sincere gratitude goes to World Rowing and British Rowing for organizing and facilitating such an incredible learning opportunity.
MARIA GEORGIOU – CYPRUS
Coming from our small rowing community from an island called Cyprus last week was a rare and unforgettable opportunity to see the sport through the eyes of the GB rowing nation. Their approach, discipline, and deep-rooted passion for the sport were inspiring to witness firsthand. We were able to experience their culture of excellence — from the way they prepare before getting into the boat, to the level of precision and focus they bring to every stroke. It opened my eyes to just how much dedication and attention to detail it takes to compete at the highest level, and it made me see rowing in a whole new light.
What stood out most was how willing they were to share their knowledge and experiences. They welcomed us into their world, showing us techniques, training methods, and mental strategies that have shaped their success. Hearing their perspective made me realize that while rowing is physically demanding, the mental side of the sport is just as important. Their belief in teamwork, resilience, and constant self-improvement resonated deeply with me, and I know it will stay with me long after this experience.
The WISH program played a huge role in helping me absorb and apply everything I was learning. It wasn’t just a tool, but a guide that broke down complex skills into simple, actionable steps. It gave me clarity on where my strengths are and, more importantly, where I need to improve. By combining the insights from this great rowing nation with the structure and feedback from WISH, I could see exactly what I needed to focus on in order to grow.
Now, I feel much more confident about my path forward in rowing. I understand that success will come from consistent effort, applying what I’ve learned, and continuing to use the WISH program as my compass. This week has not only broadened my technical skills but has also shifted my mindset. I’m leaving with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the example set by world-class rowers, and equipped with the tools to make my own mark in the sport.
A big thank you to World Rowing, the Great Britain team, and the WISH program for making this an unforgettable experience. The chance to learn from such talented rowers was truly inspiring, and their warm welcome meant a lot.
The WISH program was a great help, giving me the guidance I need to keep improving. I’m grateful for everything I’ve learned and will carry it forward in my rowing journey.
Sincere thanks: World Rowing Head of Coaching Rosie Mayglothling for the planning and liaison with the mentor clubs: British Rowing, Scottish Rowing, all stakeholders for hosting, sharing knowledge and experience with the coaches; Uganda RF for support; World Rowing Development Team and Cyprus RF for financial and logistical support
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Images courtesy of Batenga Nakisozi and Maria Georgiou