Abbey Boutcher discovered her passion for rowing in grade six, enjoying the thrill of competing against other schools, and the camaraderie of her teammates. Over time, rowing became more than just a sport for her: it became a way of life.
And when she graduates as a Health and Physical Education teacher, she will have the chance to inspire similar experiences for future generations as well.
Throughout high school Abbey remained eager to participate in more rowing events and keep improving her skills. And it wasn't just about the physical skill and ability, either. Rowing was teaching her values like discipline, determination, and resilience. She learned how to balance her academic and athletic commitments, how to cope with challenges and failures, and how to celebrate her achievements and growth. She also became part of a supportive community of rowers, coaches, and mentors who encouraged her to pursue her goals and dreams.
Rowing also helped her transition to university life. She enrolled at the University of Tasmania to study a Bachelor of Education (Health & Physical Education) at the Newnham Campus in Launceston. And she was able to continue competitive rowing, as a member of the University team through the Elite Athlete Program.
She found that the University was very supportive of her sporting aspirations and flexible with her study schedule. And she loved the feeling of being on the water, free and happy, surrounded by nature and her friends.
"It's a great break from studying and any stress, really," she said.
"I've carried so much over from sport into uni and vice versa. The University of Tasmania is great, they're very considerate towards sporting commitments and I'm a huge advocate for training and competing in sports while studying."
For Abbey, sporting commitments were as vital as textbooks. Rowing wasn’t just a break; it was a mental reset, a chance to recharge. The University accommodated her rigorous schedule, blending on-campus days with online study, and her discipline on the water translated to discipline in her studies.
Proudly wearing the badge of the Elite Athlete Program, she represented the University at the 2022 UNI Games in Perth. While proud of the team's performance at the games, Abbey said the experience was about more than just the sporting achievements.
"Apart from the racing, we got to see the city and some of the really cool touristy locations around Perth, it was awesome."
Through her passion for rowing, every sporting moment – whether it was Nationals, the UNI Games, or a routine training session – added to the vibrant tapestry of her uni experience.
"I honestly think that if I didn't row during my early adolescent years, I wouldn't be the person that I am today," she said.
"That determination, discipline, and those little things have helped me through life and coming into university."
Do you want to turn your passion for sport and education into a career? Learn more about studying for the Bachelor of Education (Health & Physical Education).