Vermilion’s connection to the upcoming Paris 2024 Summer Olympics is more personal and inspiring than ever, thanks to Kristen Siermachesky. Kristen, whose father, Cory Siermachesky, was an accomplished high jumper, is carrying on the family’s athletic legacy, albeit in a different sport—rowing. As she prepares for her first Olympic appearance (July 27-Aug 3), Kristen’s journey from ice hockey to the world stage is a testament to her dedication, versatility, and resilience.
Kristen’s ties to Vermilion run deep. Her father, Cory, was a standout athlete who graduated from J.R. Robson in 1987 and went on to compete in high jumping at the national level, narrowly missing the Olympics twice. His parents, Kristen’s Baba and Gido (Dianne and Roger Siermachesky), still reside in Vermilion, and the town holds a special place in Kristen’s heart. Reflecting on her connection, she shared, “I have many fond memories of visiting Vermilion and Dad showing me around his stomping grounds.”
Kristen’s athletic journey began on the ice rather than the water. After playing NCAA ice hockey at Syracuse University, she pursued a master’s degree at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. With one year of NCAA eligibility left and no ice hockey program at UNC, Kristen decided to try rowing. It was a decision that would change her life. “Midway through my first year as a Tar Heel, UNC head coach Erin Neppel saw something in my rowing ability and talent and reached out to Team Canada officials,” she explained. By July 2022, Kristen had moved to Duncan, BC, to train with the national team, embarking on a whirlwind journey that included competing at the Pan American Games, the World Championships, and the World Cup.
When asked about her inspiration to pursue rowing at such a high level, Kristen credits her family’s competitive spirit. “All my childhood, I have been competitive. With my parents and my sister, we grew a tight-knit relationship that allowed us to push each other and strive for excellence,” she said. Her parents, along with her coach Erin Neppel and teammate Kasia, an Olympic gold medalist, have been her mentors and role models.
Training for the Olympics is no small feat. Kristen describes her typical day as starting at 7 a.m. and often ending around 6 p.m., with a rigorous schedule that includes rowing sessions, weight lifting, and cross-training. “We train between 4-8 hours a day, six days a week,” she said, emphasizing the importance of time management, preparation, and sleep in balancing the physical and mental demands.
Despite the challenges, Kristen remains focused and motivated. “Rowing is hard because you only compete 2-3 times a year. You train nearly all year long, six days a week, for a few hours of limelight,” she noted. Staying healthy, eating properly, and maintaining motivation are constant challenges, but Kristen’s dedication is unwavering. “To wear the maple leaf has always been a dream, and I would have never thought three years ago when I learned to row that I would be heading to the Olympics.”
As she looks forward to her first Olympic experience, Kristen is eager to represent Canada and compete alongside other elite athletes. “I think I’m most looking forward to being surrounded by other like-minded, high-achieving athletes, and showing the world all the work we have been putting in,” she said.
Kristen’s role at the Olympics is unique—she is a spare, ready to jump into the boat at a moment’s notice. Her goal is clear: “The goal is GOLD – at the moment, that is all that is on my mind.” Beyond the Olympics, Kristen plans to return to Chapel Hill to finish her master’s degree and serve as an assistant coach for the UNC women’s rowing team, with aspirations of becoming an athletic director at a university.
Kristen’s journey from hockey to Paris as a rower is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with determination and support. Her advice to young athletes aspiring to reach the Olympic level? “You can do anything you put your mind to. There is not one straight path to the destination you are seeking—so create your own path and walk it with pride.”
With her competitive spirit, dedication, and strong support system, Kristen Siermachesky is not only making her family proud but also inspiring the next generation of athletes to dream big and strive for excellence.
Comments