May 11, 2007

As the 2006-07 rowing season winds down, TarHeelBlue.com is spotlighting each of the three seniors on the UNC squad. The final senior is Adriann Spinks, a double major in psychology and exercise and sport science from Francisco, N.C. She was interviewed by THB.com's Kristi Hankins.

TarHeelBlue.com: What made you try out for rowing when you arrived at UNC?

Spinks: Trying out for Carolina's rowing team was as simple as going to the interest meeting the coaches held the first week of my freshman year. I wanted something to really love and be involved in as I was looking into different campus activities. I was completely struck by the description and images of rowing the coaches and athletes presented at that meeting. I have been hooked ever since and the experience has just gotten better and better.

THB: Did you participate in any sports before college?

Spinks: Before college I lettered in soccer, basketball, and track and field.

THB: What do you most enjoy about the sport of rowing and rowing for UNC?

Spinks: Above all I have loved the challenge of the sport itself and the exceptional team dynamic of UNC's rowing team. Like no other sport I have played, rowing epitomizes teamwork; we have an amazing group of women supporting each other and putting in a tremendous amount of work day in and out.

THB: What do you like to do outside of rowing? If you had an extra hour every day, how would you use it?

Spinks: I love cooking, so if I have a little extra time in the day I like to spend it with friends making something fun to eat.

THB: What has been the best moment of your rowing career?

Spinks: It is hard to pinpoint one crowning moment of my rowing career. I can remember having the most amazing race at South/Centrals my freshman year. In our last race of the year, I literally got cold chills when my coxswain, Lauren Portnow, made a call to honor our seniors. There was so much sheer strength and swing together in that race. We always strive for that amazing feeling and although we may not come off the water with it every race, I have felt it over and over again.

THB: Is there an athlete that you look up to or admire?

Spinks: When I was younger, playing basketball, I really admired Indiana Pacer Reggie Miller for his skill in shooting and his confidence and ability to perform in pressure situations. In rowing I have really looked up to Michelle Hall as a teammate, a great novice coach and an athlete, dreaming big and going after a spot on the national team.

THB: What are your plans after graduation? Do you think that you will continue rowing or participating in other sports?

Spinks: Right now I cannot image not having rowing as a part of my life. This summer I will be training at a rowing development camp, learning more small boat skills and competing. This fall I plan to return to Chapel Hill to train and give back to the team as much as possible as a volunteer coach.