Women's History Month Athlete Spotlight: Harper Schrager

In celebration of Women's History Month, we are thrilled to spotlight Harper Schrager, a Team JL ambassador and a passionate advocate for rowing. Harper's journey into this sport began at Camp Randall in 8th grade, where she discovered a profound sense of community that ignited her passion for the sport. Through rowing, Harper not only found a supportive community but also embraced a newfound appreciation for her body's capabilities both on and off the water. We sat down with Harper to learn how rowing empowers women, the female athletes who inspire her, and what Women's History Month means to her as an athlete. 

JL Racing: Can you share a bit about your journey into rowing and what inspired you to pursue this sport?

Harper Schrager: I first started rowing at Camp Randall in 8th grade and I was immediately drawn in by the community. Before then I’d tried lots of different sports ranging from cross country skiing to horseback riding to swimming. I never really found my niche until I tried rowing. Even though my first year of rowing was heavily impacted by Covid – picture learning to row in socially-distanced singles – I fell in love with the people and how they encouraged me to be my best self. 

JL Racing: How has rowing impacted your life, both on and off the water?

Harper: Through rowing, I have not only found a community, but I’ve also found a version of myself that wouldn’t be possible without this sport. I’ve grown to love and respect my body for what it can do in a boat or on an erg. 

JL Racing: Who are some female athletes that have inspired you throughout your career?

Harper: It’s hard to pick just one but I’d have to say Ilona Maher and her message of body positivity. I also am inspired by Singaporean rower, Aisyah Rafaee, and her positivity and confidence. 

JL Racing: In your opinion, what does Women's History Month mean to you as an athlete?

Harper: I recently learned that women had the right to vote for 20 years before they were allowed to compete in the sport of women’s rowing at the Olympics. This astonished me that up until around 50 years ago, women were thought to be too “fragile” to row. I think that sports give women a sense of power and control over their bodies. In order to properly honor the women who came before us we must recognize and celebrate the women who paved the way for equal access to sports. 

JL Racing: How do you think sports like rowing empower women and contribute to gender equality? 

Harper: I think that as a sport, rowing is uniquely suited to empower women. It features a crew of multiple women coming together to strengthen each other in every race. It also uplifts women who might fit outside of gender stereotypes, such as women over or under the average height. Rowing’s position as a Title IX sport also allows it to give opportunities to many more women to participate in college athletics. 

JL Racing: Have you faced any challenges as a female athlete, and how did you overcome them?

Harper: I’ve definitely experienced my fair share of challenges, especially regarding my body image as an athlete. As a bigger girl on a team of small petite women, it can be hard to feel good in your body. I still struggle with my body image but I’ve come to appreciate my body for what it can do for me. It deserves love and affection for being able to carry me through a 2k or 5k erg test. 

JL Racing: Can you share a memorable moment or achievement in your rowing career that you're particularly proud of?

Harper: I recently made the 4+ on the team our coaches sent to Head of the Charles. Being able to attend the “Super Bowl of Regattas” was a special opportunity. I think that everyone should get the chance to be able to race down the Charles to the sound of cheering crowds! We requalified our boat and did the best we could, something I’m very proud of. 

JL Racing: As a part of Team JL and the rowing community, how do you hope to inspire other women?

Harper: I hope that I can show all the girls just starting their rowing journeys that they can do whatever they put their mind to. I hope to show them that nothing can stop them from pursuing their passion.

JL Racing: Is there anything else you would like to share in honor of Women’s History Month?

Harper: Everyone watches women’s sports!