The Corporate Warrior

Episode #3: Niki Van Sprang. Never say die mentality. Dutch Olympian Rower and World Silver Medalist. Cal Berkeley Alum

Episode Summary

My Guest today is Dutch Olympian, Niki Van Sprang. Niki competed at the 2020(+1) Olympics in the men's pair. Whilst that seems like a fairytale in itself, to get there was anything from it. We speak to Niki about his journey from a talented junior athlete to the pinnacle of college racing at Cal Berkeley under legendary coach Mike Teti to the Olympic Games with the Dutch Senior team and all the setbacks in between. Upon dissecting this we see what we can learn from him for future youth athletes in any sport with regards to facing adversity head on and just the sheer grit to never be denied.

Episode Notes

Guest: Niki Van Sprang - Dutch Olympic Athlete and World Medalist

Introduction: In this episode, we are joined by Niki Van Sprang, a Dutch Olympian who has represented the Netherlands in various international competitions, including the Olympics. Niki has a wealth of experience and knowledge to share with us, and we are excited to dive into his journey as an athlete and what it takes to become a successful Olympian.

Segment 1: Junior Years 

• Niki shares his early years and how he first got involved in sports
• Discussing the role that his family played in supporting his athletic pursuits
• How Niki found a passion for rowing and what inspired him to pursue it further

Segment 2: Cal Berkeley and Mike Teti 

• Niki shares his journey to becoming a successful College oarsman 
• Discussing the training and preparation required to compete at the highest level
• Niki reflects on his experiences competing in the NCAA and what that meant to him

Segment 3: The Dutch Senior Team 

• Niki talks about the challenges transitioning into senior rowing 
• Discussing the importance of staying motivated and focusing on your goals
• Niki shares the story of making an Olympic boat. 

Segment 4: The Olympic Games 

• We hear all about the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Experience 
• Discussing his plans for the future and what he hopes to achieve in his athletic career

Conclusion:

• Thank you to Niki for joining us today and sharing his inspiring story with us
• We hope you enjoyed this episode of and learned a lot about what it takes to become a world class athlete. 

Socials: 

Niki's Instagram: @nsprang

Stay in touch on Instagram with show updates from Greg at: @gcohen.rsa 

Niki Wins Henley Royal Regatta: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0uaWyT0vlYg

Niki in the Final of the European Championship: https://worldrowing.com/video/2021-european-rowing-championships-varese-ita-mens-pair-final-a-m2/

Mike Teti: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Teti