Facebook Instagram
GET STARTED

TESTIMONIALS

TESTIMONIALS

Real Experiences, Real Impact!

The most rewarding part of my experience has been meeting incredible athletes, supportive parents, and inspiring sports professionals. The relationships we build along the way are something I truly cherish and one of the biggest reasons I have such a deep passion for coaching and recruiting. I’ve had the privilege of working with so many talented athletes who, after completing college, have become successful individuals. I look forward to building even more meaningful relationships like these.
My name is Alejandra Alonso, and I am an Olympic rower from Paraguay. I have had the chance to represent my country on the Olympic stage twice. Beyond that, rowing has allowed me not just to “row” but also to study. However, being able to study and train for Olympic qualification at the same time wouldn’t have been possible without the proper support. In 2016, I was blessed to meet Martina, who was the assistant coach at Barry University.

During the time I spent with her, she helped me tremendously with the recruiting process and guided me in adjusting to the U.S school system. She was an enormous pillar of support in that transition. When she left the team, I was saddened for us but happy for her and the opportunity she took. I have continued to follow her journey and admire her progress as a coach in the US. I don’t see heras just a regular rowing coach who writes a program and hands it to the team—I see her as a true COACH. She cares not just about the athlete but also about the person behind the athlete. She genuinely cares about everything that happens in the boat.
Thank you, Martina!

Alejandra Alonso

Asuncion, Paraguay

With her technical experience and an eye for a strong spirit, being coached by Martina made me a better rower and a more well-rounded person. Martina’s skills lie within her ability to connect with her rowers and build trust so that development and improvement can occur. With this established base of trust, I was able to really listen and adapt to her technical comments. Where, in the past, I might have gotten frustrated for not understanding the change I was being asked to make, Martina can adapt to her athletes, and explain it in a way where they get the “what”, “how”, and “why”.
I was coached by Martina for all 4 years of my college career, and she kept providing me with useful feedback at all levels of that time. From the 4, to the 2v, to the 1v, Martina helped me improve continuously and made sure I was never holding back. She helps her rowers dig deeper within themselves, and find a grit and resilience that they may not have ever known was there. Martina pushes her rowers, and pushed me to get stronger, faster, and better, but she was also there for my moments of non-linear success. Helping me to recognize my value and strength in periods when I didn’t feel that way. Overall, supporting not just the physical grit that it takes to be an elite athlete, but the mental toughness you must endure everyday. There is no one I would have rather been coached by, as I would not be the person that I am proud to be today.
Ingrid Brast
Chicago, USA
I am someone who is my greatest critic and I would get so bogged down on certain erg workouts, practices and races if I was not performing at the top. Martina was always really wonderful at bringing me back to a good place, giving me positive aspects to focus on (which I admit I wasn’t always the best at taking), but she never backed down from patting me on the shoulder and picking me up!
She is an excellent coach that was a core contributor to getting me to an athlete that could perform at NCAA Championships in the 8 boat. She worked so well with the other two coaches, which lead us to 2 NCAA Championship victories as a team. Martina focuses on what it is to be a team, mental preparation, and instilling confidence! I can’t say enough good things about her approach to coaching athletes and helping athletes build stepping stones to being the best version of themselves on and off the water.
Ellie Hartman
Breckenridge, Colorado
I am Ludovica, a retired rowing athlete with 2 silver medals from the world rowing junior championships and 5 years of experience as a Division I athlete at the University of Southern California (USC). During my years at USC I had the pleasure to be coached by Martina.  With the help of Coach Martina I was able to improve both my physique and my rowing technique on the water for a better performance on and off the water.
Talking numbers, over the span of five years, I was able to improve my 2k erg score from 7:14.00 to 6:57.00. This directly translated on my performance on the water as I was consistently selected for the varsity team. Other than the technical aspects, what was most important in those years was the human aspect. Understanding and treating me as a person and not just a machine, which in the sports world, I have come to learn, is not to be taken for granted.
Ludovica Braglia
Como, Italy
I will always be grateful to Martina for introducing me to rowing and for shaping me into the person I am today. From the moment I stepped into the boat, she saw potential in me that I didn’t even recognize in myself. Her knowledge, dedication, and passion for the sport were contagious, and she instilled in me a deep appreciation not only for rowing but also for the values of determination and discipline.
What she taught me went far beyond the water. The lessons in hard work and pushing past my limits have stayed with me long after my time as an athlete. To this day, I carry her teachings with me in both my personal and professional life. I am incredibly lucky to have been coached by someone as inspiring and committed as Martina.
Alexa Kalinowski
Boston, MA
Becoming a coxswain has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It’s a role that demands leadership, strategy, and confidence, and I couldn’t have grown into it without the incredible guidance from Martina. From day one starting off knowing nothing about rowing, Martina believed in me, pushing me to develop not only my technical skills but also my ability to lead and motivate my crew.
Through every practice and race, Martina’s unwavering support and expert advice helped me refine my calls, improve boat speed, and build trust with my team. Whether it was fine-tuning race strategies, teaching me how to handle high-pressure situations, or simply reminding me of my strengths, Martina was always there to guide me. Thanks to her dedication, I’ve gained invaluable skills—both on and off the water—that have shaped me into a more confident person. I’m incredibly grateful for her patience, encouragement, and knowledge, and I couldn’t have been the coxswain I was without that.
Katelynn LaRocca
Miami, FL
Martina knows how to bring out the best in every athlete, she pushed us to reach new levels while always keeping the training environment supportive and motivating.
Her deep understanding of technique, strategy, and conditioning has transformed my rowing performance. Martina’s dedication to excellence and her ability to inspire confidence make her an outstanding coach. I’m grateful for her guidance and leadership.
Cierra Salzano
San Diego, CA

I had the privilege to train under the coach Martina at the university and it was a great and memorable experience. She has an amazing eye for technique, and she was always there with some advice on how to improve. She encouraged me to do better not only as an athlete but also as a student and as a human. She made me feel safe and even though I was thousands of miles away from home I knew there was someone I could turn to if I needed help.

Even after I graduated, she kept in touch throughout my journey all the way to the Olympic. I don’t remember a race after which she would not message me with some advice, compliment or fun thought on my performance. Martina is a sincere coach who brings precision but also humor to each practice and teaches you the importance of persistence and effective training
Radka Novotnikova
Brno, Czech Republic
I loved having Martina as my coach because of the empathy, passion, and support she brought to practice every day. She has the ability to balance the needs of both the team and the individual, making sure each team member feels valued and supported. In times when a person, boat, or the whole team was struggling, Martina brought a competitive spirit to practice that helped us regain confidence in our abilities. What sets Martina apart is her deep understanding of how to elevate each person’s potential.
She doesn’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, she takes the time to tailor her coaching to each athlete’s unique strengths and challenges. This personalized approach was particularly evident when she served as the interim head coach of my collegiate team. Every practice was filled with positive energy and a drive to improve, not just for the sake of winning but to foster a sense of growth, teamwork, and empowerment. Martina’s leadership was more than just about rowing – it was about shaping strong, confident women who could lead both on and off the water. Her unwavering belief in me helped reignite my passion for the sport, build my confidence, and instill a sense of self-belief that I carry with me to this day. Thanks to her, I learned how to push past my limits and truly find joy in the process, not just the outcome. I am beyond grateful for the impact Martina has had on my life, both as an athlete and as a person.
Grace Eamer
Seattle, WA
We had the incredible opportunity to work with Martina as our coach and can confidently say that she was a pleasure to work with. From day one, it was clear that she truly cares about each individual, not just as an athlete, but as a person. Her dedication to our development went beyond the water; she took the time to understand our goals, challenges, and aspirations, fostering a supportive environment where we could thrive.
Martina is a passionate leader and mentor who consistently inspires her athletes to push their limits and strive for excellence. Her enthusiasm for the sport is infectious, and she has a unique ability to motivate us, even on the toughest days. She celebrates our successes, no matter how small, and encourages us to learn from our setbacks, instilling a growth mindset that has benefited us both in rowing and in life. Thanks to Martina’s guidance, we not only improved our coxing skills but also gained confidence and resilience that we carry with us outside rowing. We are incredibly grateful for her unwavering support and belief in us, and we wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking for a coach who will invest in their success both on and off the water.
Olivia and Lillian Lau
San Francisco, CA
I had the privilege of working with Martina for five years, and during that time, Martina’s dedication, positive attitude, and insightful guidance helped me to develop as an athlete and person. Martina’s deep understanding of the sport and ability to tailor her coaching for each individual athlete specifically helped me to set goals with realistic expectations, while also reaching my fullest potential on and off the water.
Her mentorship helped me develop as a leader and taught me valuable skills that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. She always knows how to bring out the best in those she works with and any athlete would be incredibly lucky to work with Martina.
Clare Widzgowski
Seattle, WA

Martina was the best coach I had during my time at Barry University. She had a remarkable ability to connect with each rower on a personal level while maintaining a strong and unified team culture. Her approach was both unique and effective—she knew exactly how to motivate us with just a few words, pushing us beyond our limits and bringing out our best performances.

Martina’s creativity in structuring practices kept training engaging and challenging, making every session an opportunity for growth. Her leadership, passion, and ability to inspire made a lasting impact on me and my teammates.
Tara Marinkovic
Belgrade, Serbia
I cannot speak highly enough of Martina. As a recruiter, she did an amazing job of keeping me motivated and confident in my abilities — never making me feel nervous about the recruiting process. I always knew that Martina saw me as a whole person, not just an erg score, and genuinely cared about connecting with me as an individual. As my coach, this remained the same.
Martina prioritizes the well-being of the whole athlete and brings an unmatched positivity to every training session. She perfectly balances being a strong, level-headed coach with being a caring and supportive presence, creating an environment where athletes can truly thrive. Above all else, Martina shows up every day as a role model that all of her athletes look up to.
Abbie Diemer
Chicago, IL
I had the privilege of working with Martina for two seasons, from 2015 to 2017, while she was an assistant coach at Barry University. From the moment she joined our team, she brought an incredible depth of expertise, but what stood out to me most was her hands-on coaching style and her ability to tailor her approach to each athlete. She wasn’t just a coach, she was a true athlete and role model.

Always in incredible shape, she ran and cycled alongside us, not only pushing us physically but also providing invaluable guidance on breathing techniques and offering encouragement when we needed it most.

On the erg and water, she delivered precise technical corrections, ensuring we continually improved. During races, she was either cycling next to us or sprinting the final 1,000 meters along the shore, cheering us on with unwavering energy. But beyond her technical expertise, what truly set her apart was her ability to connect with each athlete on a personal level. She had an incredible talent for adapting her mentorship to suit every individual, whether working with easygoing or more challenging personalities. She was deeply invested in every aspect of our training, from coordinating with sports psychologists to leading intense cardio workouts, but most importantly, she earned our complete trust. Her support extended far beyond rowing. She wasn’t just focused on our success as athletes, she genuinely cared about our futures. She was the one who encouraged me to enroll in graduate school for chemistry, a decision that shaped my career. Even after my rowing career ended and I transitioned from being a student-athlete to a full-time PhD student, Martina continued to have a profound impact on my life. She inspired me to take up long-distance running and that experience sparked a passion for both half and full marathons, something that became essential for my mental well-being throughout graduate school.

Jelena Momirov

Zrenjanin, Serbia 

For five years (2018-22) I served as the team sport psychologist for the USC Women’s Rowing team. During that time I had the pleasure of working closely with Coach Martina. Martina truly understands the pressure that comes with being an elite level D-1 student-athlete at a prestigious academic institution such as USC. And being a former collegiate rower she understands the physical and psychological expectations placed on young athletes, especially as they transition from high school and club rowing to big-time collegiate competition.
What makes Coach Martina extra special is her ability to meet each student-athlete where they are at physically and mentally at any given time and then challenge them to become a little stronger and a little tougher. All the while being supportive of the multiple aspects of her athletes’ lives (school, sports, social life, family, etc). And she does this while being 100% loyal to her responsibilities as a member of the coaching staff. If I had to provide just three words to describe Coach Martina, they would be: Integrity, Passion, and Excellence. My daughter was not a rower, but had she been, Coach Martina would be the prototype for the kind of coach I would want for my daughter (or son).
Dr. Bob Corb
Sport Psychologist
The ultimate recruiter, coach, and director of operations. Martina has the skillset for all and, on top of that, she is a great mentor to pass along all that.
I had the privilege to have her as my coach and as my colleague and I have been implementing everything I’ve learned from her: to be the most athlete focused, to find talent, to nurture talent, to be a mindful coach, and the list could go on… She is going to help you get far!
Dori Bene
Budapest, Hungary
Martina was fabulous to work with as we were navigating the US College system. She cared for the overall student to ensure that our daughter Chloe was the right fit into USC from an academic, athlete and cultural fit.
Overall, Martina was super supportive of Chloe and our whole family through the interview process and then the transition to USC college life and on the rowing team!
Fran Amling
Melbourne, Australia
Martina was the recruiting coordinator who went through the recruitment process with me and Grace Peacock, my daughter. Martina did an incredible job of this.
We flew out to California from New York and it was all amazing. Martina was extremely informative and put me, as a parent, at ease and Grace. We really hope to bump into Martina again soon.
Geraldine Peacock
Rye, NY
I had the privilege of working with Martina for five years as a collegiate coxswain and have known her for nearly seven years, including my time in the recruiting process. From the beginning and throughout my time working with her, she proved herself to be an exceptionally attentive, caring, and effective coach and mentor.
As a coach, she has a remarkable ability to bring out the best in athletes who have yet to reach their full potential. Her communication is clear, motivating, and honest, creating an environment where athletes can grow both physically and mentally. She has a keen technical eye and consistently goes above and beyond to support those she works with. As a mentor, Martina is a voice of reason and encouragement, always invested in the well-being and success of her athletes within sport and beyond. She has a unique ability to make every team member, coach, recruit, and family feel welcome and valued. Put together, this is why she was often seen as the glue of our team—the person who kept everyone motivated, supported, and excited about achieving a common goal. Most impressively, I have seen her take individual athletes and entire boats to competitive speeds that others thought were unattainable—a true testament to her skill, dedication, and confidence as a coach.
Eden Cooper Squiers
Toronto, Canada
College rowing was completely unfamiliar to me until my last year of high school. As an international student, I had no idea what the recruiting process entailed or the opportunities for athletes like me to study in the United States. The recruiting process seemed overwhelming, and I didn’t even know where to begin, and it seemed very late for me to start.
That’s when Martina Vlatkovic reached out to me and introduced me to the world of collegiate rowing. Martina has guided me through every step with patience, from understanding the recruiting timeline to communication with the coaches and administration and preparing for the transition to Division 1 athletics. I did not know the academic and athletic requirements, the necessary tests, documents, and applications—but Martina made everything clear. No matter how many questions I had or how often I needed advice, I could email or text Martina any time and receive a response within minutes. Her guidance made my journey so much smoother, and I would not be where I am today without her support. Throughout my college career, whenever I needed guidance, support, reassurance, or just someone to talk to, Martina was always there. She understood the challenges of balancing academics and athletics, adapting to a new environment, and managing the pressures of collegiate rowing. Knowing that I could always reach out to her, no matter the situation, gave me a sense of stability and confidence throughout my college career.
Evita Franckevica
Daugavpils, Latvia
As someone who has worked with many coaches and recruiters, I can confidently say that working with Martina was one of the most positive experiences of my rowing career. When being recruited by her, she was always very approachable and welcoming, encouraging me to ask questions and presenting me with opportunities that she thought I may be interested in.

She really took the time to get to know me not just as an athlete but as a person, which is extremely valuable both in recruiting and in being coached. As a coach, she and I were able to build a strong coach-athlete relationship, under which I experienced tremendous growth. I always felt comfortable coming to her, and knew that seeing Martina meant that I would be pushed further as an athlete, but cared for as a person at the same time. She always encouraged me and my fellow athletes to do the right thing, even when it was not in her benefit for us to do so. Martina’s selfless and dedicated style of coaching has made me a better athlete and person, and I truly believe that anyone who has the opportunity to work with her will leave impressed by her knowledge and abilities, and touched by her passion and care.

Sage Saperstein

San Francisco, CA

We had the honor of working with Coach Martina when she helped recruit our daughter to a D1 rowing program. Neither my husband nor I had rowed – or had experience with the recruitment process – and Coach Martina was extraordinarily helpful. She was gracious with her time and answered our questions, making us feel heard and supported during the process. She also had an amazing fund of knowledge, and we felt fully informed and confident in our daughter’s choice because of the information provided by Coach Martina.
But what was more amazing was how she supported our daughter during the recruitment period. To Coach Martina, our daughter was more than an erg time. Instead, Coach Martina got to know her as a young woman and learned about her personality, interests, and life goals. Coach Martina worked to make sure our daughter was considering both her rowing and post-college life in the recruitment process, and this helped make all of us feel confident in her ultimate decision. Our daughter talked to many coaches at many programs – but Coach Martina stood out above the rest in her ability to connect with our daughter while making her feel understood and supported. As a mom, I can say – Coach Martina was able to see the sparkle in my daughter the way I see the sparkle in my daughter!
Michelle Karten
Philadelphia, PA
My name is Alejandra Alonso, and I am an Olympic rower from Paraguay. I have had the chance to represent my country on the Olympic stage twice. Beyond that, rowing has allowed me not just to “row” but also to study. However, being able to study and train for Olympic qualification at the same time wouldn’t have been possible without the proper support. In 2016, I was blessed to meet Martina, who was the assistant coach at Barry University. During the time I spent with her, she helped me tremendously with the recruiting process and guided me in adjusting to the U.S. school system. She was an enormous pillar of support in that transition.When she left the team, I was saddened for us but happy for her and the opportunity she took. I have continued to follow her journey and admire her progress as a coach in the U.S.
I don’t see her as just a regular rowing coach who writes a program and hands it to the team—I see her as a true COACH. She cares not just about the athlete but also about the person behind the athlete. She genuinely cares about everything that happens in the boat. Thank you, Martina!
Alejandra Alonso
Asuncion, Paraguay
With her technical experience and an eye for a strong spirit, being coached by Martina made me a better rower and a more well-rounded person. Martina’s skills lie within her ability to connect with her rowers and build trust so that development and improvement can occur. With this established base of trust, I was able to really listen and adapt to her technical comments. Where, in the past, I might have gotten frustrated for not understanding the change I was being asked to make, Martina can adapt to her athletes, and explain it in a way where they get the “what”, “how”, and “why”. I was coached by Martina for all 4 years of my college career, and she kept providing me with useful feedback at all levels of that time. From the 4, to the 2v, to the 1v, Martina helped me improve continuously and made sure I was never holding back. She helps her rowers dig deeper within themselves, and find a grit and resilience that they may not have ever known was there.Martina pushes her rowers, and pushed me to get stronger, faster, and better, but she was also there for my moments of non-linear success.
Helping me to recognize my value and strength in periods when I didn’t feel that way. Overall, supporting not just the physical grit that it takes to be an elite athlete, but the mental toughness you must endure everyday. There is no one I would have rather been coached by, as I would not be the person that I am proud to be today.
Ingrid Brast
Chicago, USA
I am someone who is my greatest critic and I would get so bogged down on certain erg workouts, practices and races if I was not performing at the top. Martina was always really wonderful at bringing me back to a good place, giving me positive aspects to focus on (which I admit I wasn’t always the best at taking), but she never backed down from patting me on the shoulder and picking me up! She is an excellent coach that was a core contributor to getting me to an athlete that could perform at NCAA Championships in the 8 boat. She worked so well with the other two coaches, which lead us to 2 NCAA Championship victories as a team. Martina focuses on what it is to be a team, mental preparation, and instilling confidence! I can’t say enough good things about her approach to coaching athletes and helping athletes build stepping stones to being the best version of themselves on and off the water.
Ellie Hartman
Breckenridge, Colorado
I am Ludovica, a retired rowing athlete with 2 silver medals from the world rowing junior championships and 5 years of experience as a Division I athlete at the University of Southern California (USC). During my years at USC I had the pleasure to be coached by Martina.  With the help of Coach Martina I was able to improve both my physique and my rowing technique on the water for a better performance on and off the water. Talking numbers, over the span of five years, I was able to improve my 2k erg score from 7:14.00 to 6:57.00. This directly translated on my performance on the water as I was consistently selected for the varsity team. Other than the technical aspects, what was most important in those years was the human aspect. Understanding and treating me as a person and not just a machine, which in the sports world, I have come to learn, is not to be taken for granted.
Ludovica Braglia
Como, Italy
I will always be grateful to Martina for introducing me to rowing and for shaping me into the person I am today. From the moment I stepped into the boat, she saw potential in me that I didn’t even recognize in myself. Her knowledge, dedication, and passion for the sport were contagious, and she instilled in me a deep appreciation not only for rowing but also for the values of determination and discipline. What she taught me went far beyond the water. The lessons in hard work and pushing past my limits have stayed with me long after my time as an athlete. To this day, I carry her teachings with me in both my personal and professional life. I am incredibly lucky to have been coached by someone as inspiring and committed as Martina.
Alexa Kalinowski
Boston, MA
Becoming a coxswain has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It’s a role that demands leadership, strategy, and confidence, and I couldn’t have grown into it without the incredible guidance from Martina. From day one starting off knowing nothing about rowing, Martina believed in me, pushing me to develop not only my technical skills but also my ability to lead and motivate my crew. Through every practice and race, Martina’s unwavering support and expert advice helped me refine my calls, improve boat speed, and build trust with my team. Whether it was fine-tuning race strategies, teaching me how to handle high-pressure situations, or simply reminding me of my strengths, Martina was always there to guide me. Thanks to her dedication, I’ve gained invaluable skills—both on and off the water—that have shaped me into a more confident person. I’m incredibly grateful for their patience, encouragement, and knowledge, and I couldn’t have been the coxswain I was.
Katelynn LaRocca

Miami, FL

Martina knows how to bring out the best in every athlete, she pushed us to reach new levels while always keeping the training environment supportive and motivating. Her deep understanding of technique, strategy, and conditioning has transformed my rowing performance. Martina’s dedication to excellence and her ability to inspire confidence make her an outstanding coach. I’m grateful for her guidance and leadership.
Cierra Salzano
San Diego, CA
I had the privilege to train under the coach Martina at the university and it was a great and memorable experience. She has an amazing eye for technique, and she was always there with some advice on how to improve. She encouraged me to do better not only as an athlete but also as a student and as a human. She made me feel safe and even though I was thousands of miles away from home I knew there was someone I could turn to if I needed help. Even after I graduated, she kept in touch throughout my journey all the way to the Olympic. I don’t remember a race after which she would not message me with some advice, compliment or fun thought on my performance. Martina is a sincere coach who brings precision but also humor to each practice and teaches you to the importance of persistence and effective training.
Radka Novotnikova
Brno, Czech Republic
I loved having Martina as my coach because of the empathy, passion, and support she brought to practice every day. She has the ability to balance the needs of both the team and the individual, making sure each team member feels valued and supported. In times when a person, boat, or the whole team was struggling, Martina brought a competitive spirit to practice that helped us regain confidence in our abilities. What sets Martina apart is her deep understanding of how to elevate each person’s potential. She doesn’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, she takes the time to tailor her coaching to each athlete’s unique strengths and challenges. This personalized approach was particularly evident when she served as the interim head coach of my collegiate team. Every practice was filled with positive energy and a drive to improve, not just for the sake of winning but to foster a sense of growth, teamwork, and empowerment. Martina’s leadership was more than just about rowing – it was about shaping strong, confident women who could lead both on and off the water. Her unwavering belief in me helped reignite my passion for the sport, build my confidence, and instill a sense of self-belief that I carry with me to this day. Thanks to her, I learned how to push past my limits and truly find joy in the process, not just the outcome. I am beyond grateful for the impact Martina has had on my life, both as an athlete and as a person.
Grace Eamer
Seattle, WA
We had the incredible opportunity to work with Martina as our coach and can confidently say that she was a pleasure to work with. From day one, it was clear that she truly cares about each individual, not just as an athlete, but as a person. Her dedication to our development went beyond the water; she took the time to understand our goals, challenges, and aspirations, fostering a supportive environment where we could thrive. Martina is a passionate leader and mentor who consistently inspires her athletes to push their limits and strive for excellence. Her enthusiasm for the sport is infectious, and she has a unique ability to motivate us, even on the toughest days. She celebrates our successes, no matter how small, and encourages us to learn from our setbacks, instilling a growth mindset that has benefited us both in rowing and in life
Thanks to Martina’s guidance, we not only improved our coxing skills but also gained confidence and resilience that we carry with us outside rowing. We are incredibly grateful for her unwavering support and belief in us, and we wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking for a coach who will invest in their success both on and off the water.
Olivia and Lillian Lau
San Francisco, CA
I had the privilege of working with Martina for five years, and during that time, Martina’s dedication, positive attitude, and insightful guidance helped me to develop as an athlete and person. Martina’s deep understanding of the sport and ability to tailor her coaching for each individual athlete specifically helped me to set goals with realistic expectations, while also reaching my fullest potential on and off the water. Her mentorship helped me develop as a leader and taught me valuable skills that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. She always knows how to bring out the best in those she works with and any athlete would be incredibly lucky to work with Martina.
Clare Widzgowski
Seattle, WA
Martina was the best coach I had during my time at Barry University. She had a remarkable ability to connect with each rower on a personal level while maintaining a strong and unified team culture. Her approach was both unique and effective—she knew exactly how to motivate us with just a few words, pushing us beyond our limits and bringing out our best performances. Martina’s creativity in structuring practices kept training engaging and challenging, making every session an opportunity for growth. Her leadership, passion, and ability to inspire made a lasting impact on me and my teammates, and any program would be lucky to have her.
Țara Marinkovic
Belgrade, Serbia
I cannot speak highly enough of Martina. As a recruiter, she did an amazing job of keeping me motivated and confident in my abilities — never making me feel nervous about the recruiting process. I always knew that Martina saw me as a whole person, not just an erg score, and genuinely cared about connecting with me as an individual. As my coach, this remained the same. Martina prioritizes the well-being of the whole athlete and brings an unmatched positivity to every training session. She perfectly balances being a strong, level-headed coach with being a caring and supportive presence, creating an environment where athletes can truly thrive. Above all else, Martina shows up every day as a role model that all of her athletes look up to.
Abbie Diemer
Chicago, IL
I had the privilege of working with Martina for two seasons, from 2015 to 2017, while she was an assistant coach at Barry University. From the moment she joined our team, she brought an incredible depth of expertise, but what stood out to me most was her hands-on coaching style and her ability to tailor her approach to each athlete. She wasn’t just a coach, she was a true athlete and role model. Always in incredible shape, she ran and cycled alongside us, not only pushing us physically but also providing invaluable guidance on breathing techniques and offering encouragement when we needed it most. On the erg and water, she delivered precise technical corrections, ensuring we continually improved. During races, she was either cycling next to us or sprinting the final 1,000 meters along the shore, cheering us on with unwavering energy. But beyond her technical expertise, what truly set her apart was her ability to connect with each athlete on a personal level. She had an incredible talent for adapting her mentorship to suit every individual, whether working with easygoing or more challenging personalities. She was deeply invested in every aspect of our training, from coordinating with sports psychologists to leading intense cardio workouts, but most importantly, she earned our complete trust.
Her support extended far beyond rowing. She wasn’t just focused on our success as athletes, she genuinely cared about our futures. She was the one who encouraged me to enroll in graduate school for chemistry, a decision that shaped my career. Even after my rowing career ended and I transitioned from being a student-athlete to a full-time PhD student, Martina continued to have a profound impact on my life. She inspired me to take up long-distance running and that experience sparked a passion for both half and full marathons, something that became essential for my mental well-being throughout graduate school.
Jelena Momirov
Zrenjanin
For five years (2018-22) I served as the team sport psychologist for the USC Women’s Rowing team. During that time I had the pleasure of working closely with Coach Martina. Martina truly understands the pressure that comes with being an elite level D-1 student-athlete at a prestigious academic institution such as USC. And being a former collegiate rower she understands the physical and psychological expectations placed on young athletes, especially as they transition from high school and club rowing to big-time collegiate competition. What makes Coach Martina extra special is her ability to meet each student-athlete where they are at physically and mentally at any given time and then challenge them to become a little stronger and a little tougher. All the while being supportive of the multiple aspects of her athletes’ lives (school, sports, social life, family, etc). And she does this while being 100% loyal to her responsibilities as a member of the coaching staff. If I had to provide just three words to describe Coach Martina, they would be: Integrity, Passion, and Excellence. My daughter was not a rower, but had she been, Coach Martina would be the prototype for the kind of coach I would want for my daughter (or son).
Dr. Bob Corb
Sport Psychologist
The ultimate recruiter, coach, and director of operations. Martina has the skillset for all and, on top of that, she is a great mentor to pass along all that. I had the privilege to have her as my coach and as my colleague and I have been implementing everything I’ve learned from her: to be the most athlete focused, to find talent, to nurture talent, to be a mindful coach, and the list could go on… She is going to help you get far!
Dori Bene
Budapest, Hungary
Martina was fabulous to work with as we were navigating the US College system. She cared for the overall student to ensure that our daughter Chloe was the right fit into USC from an academic, athlete and cultural fit. Overall, Martina was super supportive of Chloe and our whole family through the interview process and then the transition to USC college life and on the rowing team!
Fran Amling
Melbourne, Australia
Martina was the recruiting coordinator who went through the recruitment process with me and Grace Peacock, my daughter. Martina did an incredible job of this. We flew out to California from New York and it was all amazing. Martina was extremely informative and put me, as a parent, at ease and Grace. We really hope to bump into Martina again soon.
Geraldine Peacock
Rye, NY
I had the privilege of working with Martina for five years as a collegiate coxswain and have known her for nearly seven years, including my time in the recruiting process. From the beginning and throughout my time working with her, she proved herself to be an exceptionally attentive, caring, and effective coach and mentor. As a coach, she has a remarkable ability to bring out the best in athletes who have yet to reach their full potential. Her communication is clear, motivating, and honest, creating an environment where athletes can grow both physically and mentally. She has a keen technical eye and consistently goes above and beyond to support those she works with. As a mentor, Martina is a voice of reason and encouragement, always invested in the well-being and success of her athletes within sport and beyond. She has a unique ability to make every team member, coach, recruit, and family feel welcome and valued. Put together, this is why she was often seen as the glue of our team—the person who kept everyone motivated, supported, and excited about achieving a common goal. Most impressively, I have seen her take individual athletes and entire boats to competitive speeds that others thought were unattainable—a true testament to her skill, dedication, and confidence as a coach.
Eden Cooper Squiers
Toronto, Canada
College rowing was completely unfamiliar to me until my last year of high school. As an international student, I had no idea what the recruiting process entailed or the opportunities for athletes like me to study in the United States. The recruiting process seemed overwhelming, and I didn’t even know where to begin, and it seemed very late for me to start. That’s when Martina Vlatkovic reached out to me and introduced me to the world of collegiate rowing. Martina has guided me through every step with patience, from understanding the recruiting timeline to communication with the coaches and administration and preparing for the transition to Division 1 athletics. I did not know the academic and athletic requirements, the necessary tests, documents, and applications—but Martina made everything clear. No matter how many questions I had or how often I needed advice, I could email or text Martina any time and receive a response within minutes. Her guidance made my journey so much smoother, and I would not be where I am today without her support. Throughout my college career, whenever I needed guidance, support, reassurance, or just someone to talk to, Martina was always there. She understood the challenges of balancing academics and athletics, adapting to a new environment, and managing the pressures of collegiate rowing. Knowing that I could always reach out to her, no matter the situation, gave me a sense of stability and confidence throughout my college career.
Evita Franckevicka
Daugavpils, Latvia
As someone who has worked with many coaches and recruiters, I can confidently say that working with Martina was one of the most positive experiences of my rowing career. When being recruited by her, she was always very approachable and welcoming, encouraging me to ask questions and presenting me with opportunities that she thought I may be interested in. She really took the time to get to know me not just as an athlete but as a person, which is extremely valuable both in recruiting and in being coached. As a coach, she and I were able to build a strong coach-athlete relationship, under which I experienced tremendous growth. I always felt comfortable coming to her, and knew that seeing Martina meant that I would be pushed further as an athlete, but cared for as a person at the same time.
She always encouraged me and my fellow athletes to do the right thing, even when it was not in her benefit for us to do so. Martina’s selfless and dedicated style of coaching has made me a better athlete and person, and I truly believe that anyone who has the opportunity to work with her will leave impressed by her knowledge and abilities, and touched by her passion and care.
Sage Saperstein
San Francisco, CA
Our daughter talked to many coaches at many programs – but Coach Martina stood out above the rest in her ability to connect with our daughter while making her feel understood and supported. As a mom, I can say – Coach Martina was able to see the sparkle in my daughter the way I see the sparkle in my daughter!
We had the honor of working with Coach Martina when she helped recruit our daughter to a D1 rowing program. Neither my husband nor I had rowed – or had experience with the recruitment process – and Coach Martina was extraordinarily helpful. She was gracious with her time and answered our questions, making us feel heard and supported during the process. She also had an amazing fund of knowledge, and we felt fully informed and confident in our daughter’s choice because of the information provided by Coach Martina. But what was more amazing was how she supported our daughter during the recruitment period. To Coach Martina, our daughter was more than an erg time. Instead, Coach Martina got to know her as a young woman and learned about her personality, interests, and life goals. Coach Martina worked to make sure our daughter was considering both her rowing and post-college life in the recruitment process, and this helped make all of us feel confident in her ultimate decision.
Michelle Karten
Philadelphia, PA

Learn the Art of Rowing

Join row to grow for personalized Rowing training that teaches you the fundamentals and techniques for a safe, enjoyable ride

Join now
Contact:
connect@rowtogrow.com
Instagram
Row to Grow
Consulting

Home

About Me

Services

Testimonials

Contact Me

Services

College Recruiting and Transferring

Enhance Your Rowing Skills and Erg Performance

Enhance your Coxing Skills

Pricing Info

Support
Copyright © 2025 ROW TO GROW