From stern to bow and port to starboard, sophomore Caleb Niesen has sculled his way to success. Through intense regattas and constant practices, Caleb, member of the Coastal Virginia Community Rowing Club (CVCR), has emerged as one of the top young rowing talents across Virginia Beach. Beginning rowing in eighth grade, Caleb now practices five days a week and is also a member of the Math and Science Academy (MSA).

“From the beginning, Caleb has demonstrated an exceptional work ethic. He is highly self-motivated and is always looking for ways to improve,” CVCR founder and Coach Melissa Kuch said. “Caleb is willing to get into any boat, with any teammate, at any time if it means rowing.”

As an MSA student, Caleb has found ways to manage his time well, excelling in the classroom as well.

“I try to do almost all of my homework on the bus or in study block,” Caleb said. “Rowing is pretty much full time, but I love fishing as well.”

Recently, Caleb has found success at major regattas, the term for a rowing race or series of races, including placing third at states, second at regionals and fourth at the Stotesbury Cup Regatta, the biggest high school regatta in the world. 

“In states and at Stotesbury, I raced varsity,” Caleb said. “Normally, the first race we have is a time trial, where boats go with 15 seconds in between, and then they line up and start together in heats for finals.”

Additionally, Caleb was recognized in The Virginian-Pilot for his accomplishments, along with another teammate at CVCR.

As for his future, Caleb hopes to row in college like his father.

“My dad rowed at Columbia in New York, so I want to row Division I in college as well,” Caleb said. 

His coach believes this goal is realistic as well, stating that his abilities can take him anywhere.

“Caleb has already shown that he can compete successfully at a high level, and if he continues to stay motivated, self-driven and humble while maintaining his commitment to improvement, I believe he has the ability to achieve whatever goals he sets for himself within the sport,” Kuch said.