1. What are your general goals? - My general goals are to maintain a proper balance between God, running, academics, and family/friends. While trying not to go insane. Us distance runners have very busy schedules and finding a balance and making it all run smooth is key. My goals for running specifically, are just to be as competitive as possible to help advance my team score. This year we have a pretty good squad, and I want us to go as far as we can and push each other to become better athletes and people.
2. What are you currently working on? - Some things I am currently working on are doing anything in my power to avoid injury. Every season I've had some kind of injury and most of the time it's due to lack of stretching. I've definitely changed that, I find myself stretching any chance I get now that I realize what the consequences of not stretching are. I'm also just trying to keep a more optimistic attitude. I used to beat myself up after bad races or workouts, but I try my best to use those bad experiences as motivation to help me next time.
3. Do you have any advice for younger athletes? -Some tips I'd give to younger athletes is that you get out what you put into it. If you don't work hard, don't push yourself, don't give it your all, then you're not going to get the results that you're hoping for. That being said, if you're motivated and listen to your coach and give your best effort then you will see great results, and don't be surprised when you drop a huge PR, because you worked for it. You earned it. You keep striving for greatness, and it will end up at your door.
4. What have you gained or how has your life improved because of your xc experience? - Through my experience with cross country, I've gained a lot, and it's so hard to put the feeling into words. I've gained lifelong friends that are always there for me when I need them. These are my teammates, my brothers; we learned to trust each other, and we've formed a bond that is inseparable. I've gained a new way of life, a healthy one. If I weren't running, it would be very difficult to keep in shape, between eating junk food occasionally and catching up on my favorite game battlefield. I definitely think I would be a few pounds heavier. But not even that. It's a lifestyle that I need when I don't get to run due to injury, I feel empty like there is a big hole in my life that needs to be filled. Running is my best friend and psychiatrist when I'm sad, mad, confused, excited. Cross Country is how I keep my life balanced.
