Student-Athlete Check In: Jade Rowland – Penn State Fencing
As the events of early March unfolded and changed all over the country, Penn State student-athletes found themselves facing uncertainty and transition in their academic and athletic realities.
The Penn State fencing team, 2019 NCAA runner ups, was preparing for the 2020 NCAA Championship when the COVID-19 pandemic erupted. As the entire Penn State family works for ways to stay connected, we can check in with some members of head coach Wes Glon's fencing team to get some insight into how typical student-athletes reacted, adjusted and began the process of forging ahead in our current circumstance.
GoPSU: How have you been adapting to online learning?
Jade: "Initially, it was challenging to sift through all the emails with COVID-19 updates. However, now there is a routine to it all. I enjoy working at home."
GoPSU: Athletes are by nature focused on staying healthy, what have you been doing to keep fit, active and energized?
Jade: "I have struggled to keep active, but I try my best to take yoga breaks between applications and class. I have also gone on hikes."
GoPSU: How are you handling the disappointment of not being able to compete in the post-season?
Jade: "It was the right decision to protect our national community. I have come to terms with missing out on my last championship as a Nittany lion. I am proud of what this team has accomplished, and I know we have set ourselves up to compete in a strong and confident manner in the coming years."
GoPSU: What has your family been doing together during this extended period of social distancing? Any family activities, etc.?
Jade: "I am still in State College so I have enjoyed going on hikes in Rothrock state park for exercise. I have definitely finished my Netflix to-watch list!"
What is the one thing you miss most right now about not being back at Penn State?
Jade: "Mostly, I miss my friends. As a post-season senior, you get one month out of your four years to really enjoy Penn State. I miss all the late-night hangouts we had planned because we no longer had to wake up for morning practice!"
GoPSU: How have you been keeping in contact with your teammates?
Jade: "We've got up to nine of us playing club penguin! We have also celebrated our team banquet over zoom and did a funny team trivia quiz."
