Great Bend High School graduate Jessica Kuhlman has been competing for the Kansas State rowing team since she was a freshman.
She didn't have any rowing experience, but she had a competitive nature.
She ran cross-country, played basketball and swam in the spring.
"My senior year of high school, they sent out a mailer to potential rowers," Kuhlman said. "I reached out to them and talked with the coaches. By the end of freshman year,  I was a scholarship athlete."
Things continued to look up for Kuhlman, who set the school record.
"I hold the 2K record," Kuhlman said. "In the fall and winter, we have 2K tests. They have us rowing as individuals on an indoor rowing machine. I was the first in school history to get below seven minutes."
Kuhlman's record is 6:57.3.
Things changed in October.
Kuhlman was struck by a car during an afternoon jog.
"I was in the pedestrian crosswalk and I was struck by a car," Kuhlman said. "I broke my collarbone and I had a sprained my ankle.
"I missed two months of practice time. I was in line for one of the top two boats, but after missing so much practice, I was out of the running."
Kuhlman is back in a boat now. She just competed in the Big 12 championships and will be competing in the Conference USA championships in Tennessee for a chance to compete at the national tournament.
She placed third overall in her boat at the Big 12 championships.
She was also awarded Most Inspirational Athlete Award at the Powercat Choice Awards.
"I  knew I was nominated," Kuhlman said. "I had no idea I would've been voted to win. There were four athletes up for the award. I was in complete shock."