Rowing Incoming Freshman Spotlight: Dillan DeLugo
Jun 11 | Rowing
SMU announced the addition of Dillan DeLugo to the 2024-25 incoming freshman class. DeLugo hails from Southlake, Texas where she rowed for two years at Founders Rowing Club.
Basic Information:
Seasons Rowed: 2
Hometown, State: Southlake, Texas
Club Team: Founders Rowing Club
Intended Major: Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Business
Questions:
What is your favorite rowing memory?
- It was an out of this world experience rowing at the Head of the Charles last fall. Not only are you surrounded by the top US rowers, but also it's an incredibly beautiful and challenging course. I felt so proud to place 4th in the Youth 2x out of a very competitive 54 boats.
Why did you choose to row for SMU?
- Throughout the recruiting process, SMU was always at the very top of my list because it is a rowing powerhouse. But when I met the coaching staff it really sealed the deal because they are the most welcoming and encouraging people. They made me feel like this was the right choice and I knew it.
What stuck out to you about the team in your decision-making process that made the decision feel right?
- During my official visit to campus I was blown away by how everyone on the team supported each other and seemed laser focused during the training session. They all moved with purpose. But yet they were having so much fun. I knew that would be the right fit for me. Everyone was also very kind and nice and proud to be a SMU Mustang.
What did you love about Dallas when you visited?
- I spend a lot of time in Dallas because I row at Bachman Lake every day with my club team, Founders Rowing Club. For me I love that we have sunshine so many months out of the year, and great BBQ.
What was something about SMU/Dallas that surprised you?
- I'm always surprised at how calm and beautiful campus feels even though it's right in the middle of a bustling city. You always feel at peace on campus.
What impact do you plan to make in your first year?
- My goal is to bring my best to everything I do at SMU in athletics and academics, and inspire others to also be their best through positivity and leadership. I hope to set a good example that includes being a good leader, a mentor and a force for good whether I'm on the water or in the classroom.
What are you most excited about for your freshman year?
- I'm very excited to get focused and learning in my major. You take a lot of broad classes in high school that you may or may not enjoy, but in college it's about studying what you love - so I can't wait to dig in and learn.
What are you looking forward to doing most when you get to Dallas?
- I enjoy photography, so I'll be looking for some very aesthetic places to expand my very amateur social media portfolio.
Top rowing accomplishments and placement?
- US Rowing Central Region 2x 1st, Texas State Championships 2x 1st, Head of the Charles Youth 2x 4th, US Rowing Central Region 4x 2nd, Head of the Hooch 4x 1st, Head of the Hooch 2x 2nd, Head of the Oklahoma 2x 1st, Head of the Oklahoma 4x 1st
Non-Rowing Accomplishments…
- National Honor Society, National Recognition Scholar, Academic All-State Award, President's Volunteer Service Award, Carroll Distinguished Scholar, National Charity League (Vice President), Dragon Diving Carroll "C" Award, USA Diving Synchro Diving 3 Meter Gold Medalist, Certified Lifeguard
Basic Information:
Seasons Rowed: 2
Hometown, State: Southlake, Texas
Club Team: Founders Rowing Club
Intended Major: Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Business
Questions:
What is your favorite rowing memory?
- It was an out of this world experience rowing at the Head of the Charles last fall. Not only are you surrounded by the top US rowers, but also it's an incredibly beautiful and challenging course. I felt so proud to place 4th in the Youth 2x out of a very competitive 54 boats.
Why did you choose to row for SMU?
- Throughout the recruiting process, SMU was always at the very top of my list because it is a rowing powerhouse. But when I met the coaching staff it really sealed the deal because they are the most welcoming and encouraging people. They made me feel like this was the right choice and I knew it.
What stuck out to you about the team in your decision-making process that made the decision feel right?
- During my official visit to campus I was blown away by how everyone on the team supported each other and seemed laser focused during the training session. They all moved with purpose. But yet they were having so much fun. I knew that would be the right fit for me. Everyone was also very kind and nice and proud to be a SMU Mustang.
What did you love about Dallas when you visited?
- I spend a lot of time in Dallas because I row at Bachman Lake every day with my club team, Founders Rowing Club. For me I love that we have sunshine so many months out of the year, and great BBQ.
What was something about SMU/Dallas that surprised you?
- I'm always surprised at how calm and beautiful campus feels even though it's right in the middle of a bustling city. You always feel at peace on campus.
What impact do you plan to make in your first year?
- My goal is to bring my best to everything I do at SMU in athletics and academics, and inspire others to also be their best through positivity and leadership. I hope to set a good example that includes being a good leader, a mentor and a force for good whether I'm on the water or in the classroom.
What are you most excited about for your freshman year?
- I'm very excited to get focused and learning in my major. You take a lot of broad classes in high school that you may or may not enjoy, but in college it's about studying what you love - so I can't wait to dig in and learn.
What are you looking forward to doing most when you get to Dallas?
- I enjoy photography, so I'll be looking for some very aesthetic places to expand my very amateur social media portfolio.
Top rowing accomplishments and placement?
- US Rowing Central Region 2x 1st, Texas State Championships 2x 1st, Head of the Charles Youth 2x 4th, US Rowing Central Region 4x 2nd, Head of the Hooch 4x 1st, Head of the Hooch 2x 2nd, Head of the Oklahoma 2x 1st, Head of the Oklahoma 4x 1st
Non-Rowing Accomplishments…
- National Honor Society, National Recognition Scholar, Academic All-State Award, President's Volunteer Service Award, Carroll Distinguished Scholar, National Charity League (Vice President), Dragon Diving Carroll "C" Award, USA Diving Synchro Diving 3 Meter Gold Medalist, Certified Lifeguard
Thursday, September 17
Thursday, September 17
Tuesday, September 15
Sunday, September 13
