Tates Creek
What was your most memorable meet and why?
The most memorable meets for me were the out-of town meets. My freshman year we went to Tennessee. Sophomore year we went to Georgia. My Junior and Senior year we went to North Carolina. These were my favorite races because we would have so much fun on the bus, goofing around at the hotel, and the memories we made at these big meets were the best every season.
Where did you face your biggest competition?
All four years of my high school career I've been blessed to be surrounded by some of the best competition in the state, as well as in the nation. I faced my biggest competition at The Great American Cross Country Festival. Some of the top teams and girls in the country were there and it really helped me push myself to be the best runner that I can be.
Out of all of your high school accomplishments which stands out the most and why?
My 3rd place finish at state my junior year really stands out to me. I was there mentally, emotionally, and was in really good shape to race. I really pushed the limit during that race and was happy with how I ran.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I would learn to enjoy the small moments more often. I would want to enjoy the fun moments more with my team, rather than worrying about the future and the races to come.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The most difficult obstacle to overcome was not a physical one, but a mental one. I played races over and over again in my head. I got in my own head a lot and it ruined some of the experiences I needed to relax and enjoy.
What will you miss the most?
My freshman and sophomore year we went to Gatlinburg, TN for a few days to get in good mileage and team bonding. Those experiences will always be my favorite. I will definitely miss my team and the pranks, experiences, and memories I have shared with them over the years.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Enjoy the small things. It all flies by so fast and you'll enjoy it more if you relax and have fun. Make sure to eat plenty of dessert too. You'll regret it after your last pasta party ;)
What are your post-high school or college plans?
I will be running cross country and track at East Carolina University will be majoring in Elementary Education.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I would like to thank God. He has given me the ability to participate and excel in two sports every year. I would also to thank my parents for all their support the past 5 years. They have been there for me through injuries and hard times through my soccer, cross country, and track careers. In addition to all the current coaches a Tates Creek, I want to thank Coach Henry, Coach Hawboldt, and Ted Butler. They have always kept me on my toes, in shape, and pushed me to be the best athlete that I can be. They taught me to never give up and to chase my dreams.Lastly, I would like to thank Advantage Physical Therapy. They were able to keep me up in running through seasons of injury and encouraged me during/after each session.
