The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
2025-26 Rowing Roster
Roster
Natalia Portilla
- Height:
- 5-9
- Class:
- Freshman
- High School:
- James Bowie High School
- Hometown:
- Austin, Texas
- Major:
- Interested in Biochemistry
Before Texas
Varsity Basketball Academic All-District (2021-2024) ... Varsity Basketball District Champion (2024) ... Select AAU Basketball US Youth Nationals 1v 4x: 11th place (2025) ... Texas Rowing Center: Most improved Athlete (2025)
Why Texas?
"I chose Texas because I wanted to be part of a team that works hard, supports each other, and strives to be the best! The coaching, team culture, and energy felt like the right fit for me. It's somewhere where I know that I'll be able to grow and be challenged every day!"
What led you to pursue rowing and what do you love most about it?
"Rowing has pushed me into one of the most—if not the most—physically demanding and mentally challenging experiences of my life. With every stroke, my hamstrings burn, my hands ache, and my heart pounds in my chest. Each meter we cover feels like an obstacle my teammates and I must overcome. Yet, with all this intensity, there is a mixture of calm and focus to glide through the water. That is what I love most about rowing. "
Personal
- Daughter of Georgina and Ignacio Portilla
- Has a twin sister, Valeria, and a younger brother, Emilio.
- Enjoys baking, wake surfing, travel, photography, and crafts
