The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
2024-25 Rowing Roster
Roster
Shay Olson
- Position:
- Port/Starboard
- Height:
- 5-10
- Class:
- Sophomore
- High School:
- Holy Names Academy
- Hometown:
- Seattle, Wash.
- Major:
- Sport Management
Before Texas
Competed in the V8+ at USRowing Youth Nationals three times (2021-23) placing 10th in 2023 … competed at the 2023 Northwest Youth Championships placing first in the V8+ and second in the V2- … won gold at the 2023 Windermere Cup in the JrW8+ … twice raced at Head of the Charles (2021-22) … selected to the USRowing High Performance team in 2022 and placed third in the 4+ at Summer Nationals … competed at the 2022 Northwest Youth Championships, placing second in the V2- and third in the V8+.
Why Texas?
“I choose Texas because of the great opportunities both academically and athletically. I especially loved the team environment and how the team is there to be both a supportive teammate but also there to challenge you not only as a rower but a person. I knew Texas would be the place to challenge me to become the best rower I can be.”
What led you to pursue rowing and what do you love most about it?
“Before rowing, I did ballet for many years, but stopped right before my freshman year of high school, so I needed a new sport. My school had a big novice rowing program, so I decided to give it a try after many people had been encouraging me to do so. I fell in love almost instantly. What I love most about rowing is how you're not just trying to challenge and improve yourself every day, but also trying to make the team better and every boat you are a part of the best it can be.”
Personal
- Parents are Brent and Elise Olson
- Has a younger brother, Alec, and a pet dog, Frizz.
- Has an uncle who played football at California, a grandfather who played basketball at California, and another grandfather who played basketball at Eastern Washington
- Began rowing at 15
- Enjoys hanging with friends and family, baking and spending time in the outdoors (swimming, hiking, going to the beach or lake)
