Sam Bosworth
Equally, Sam Bosworth understands the weight of expectations on those involved in Rowing at the highest levels and the crucial role of the right mentor in powering competitors to the pinnacle of their sport. He believes it is vital to be a mentor in order to inspire others and help people succeed.
Today, Sam is the mentor, bringing “trust, leadership, experience, and knowledge” to the role. Equally, he recognises that a mentor must be approachable and friendly. Sam has remained close to College, having been a rowing coach and involved in the rowing programme since leaving school and responding to a request from Head Coach Henry Smith to help the coxswains, with Henry King taking the initiative to get in touch. “I have mostly been helping Henry King with coxswain advice but I am happy to offer other advice and guidance if he requires it,” he says. “I believe my mentoring has significantly helped Henry. The role of the coxswain is a
unique one and many coxswains just learn from experience. Being able to share my knowledge and experience helps Henry improve in his role. It is important to be receptive to feedback, which Henry is, and I have noticed some great changes in his coxing.” Sam highlights that – as a mentor – you need to understand who you are working with, what skill level they are at and what are the best mechanisms or advice you can offer to get the best out of each athlete. Out of the water, Sam and Henry have worked in unison towards their goals, with the ripple effect of a gifted gold medallist helping the up-and- coming cox surge ahead.
“I think that it was installed from a young age to treat others kindly and help one another succeed. During my time at College, I think helping others would have been installed through team sport and the culture at the school.” Sam also has benefitted from many mentors – from coaches and athletes to family friends and close friends. However, he cites College Rowing coach Henry Smith as a “major influence in my formative years” and College Maths teacher and renowned Rowing coach Tony O’Connor as “my biggest mentor over my career”. “Tony has coached me from school level to the Olympics. Having a mentor has had a big impact on my career. I think it is important to talk to people and get a different perspective from different people that can help you make calculated decisions. It is important to seek feedback and learn from it.”
“The role of the coxswain is a unique one and many coxswains just learn from experience. Being able to share my knowledge and experience helps Henry improve in his role.”
COLLEGE 2022
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