To get in shape for the film, Isabelle Fuhrman underwent an intense training regimen, during which she gained ten pounds of muscle.
The movie is partially based on director Lauren Hadaway's experiences as a queer member of Southern Methodist University's women's rowing team.
Director Lauren Hadaway said she didn't want the fact that Isabelle Fuhrman's character was queer to be a focus of the story. She said her sexuality didn't matter anymore than if she was straight.
Isabelle Fuhrman's first nude scene though all she shows is a brief nipple and side nudity.