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When did you first start running, and do you recall any of your childhood races?
I first started running 7th grade, however my first race was a community race in 5th grade. I can't recall of my time but I do remember going out way to hard.
Was there a certain moment when you realized you'd be able to compete at such a high level?
I knew I was fast after my first freshman race run a 18:05 but then I injured myself in a none running incident. I was able to recover in time for districts but didn't run nearly as good. From there I knew I could compete at the state level.
What are some bumps in the road that you've encountered when it comes to training for different events during the season?
Being good in a small town is really difficult especially when i am the only 3200 meter runner. This meant being done with training 25 minutes after everyone else. There were a lot of lonely moments but some of my teammate would always be there waiting for me.
How did COVID impact your training as you prepared for the season?
The COVID pandemic hit my school March 17th. Practice and all school events were canceled. So I ran by myself and did some time trails. When May arrived I switched my training to Cross Country.
Where are you going to college? If you have already committed, what made you choose them?
Tiffin University. I had looked at a lot of schools and after talking to the coach and hearing how he coached I knew I wanted to go there.
Let's discuss the college searching process. What was that like, and what schools did you look at?
I made a list of the important things. Degree, Athletic program, Coach philosophy, team. The first school I visited was UMSL. I liked the coach but he was the type of coach that built up a program and then left. So UMSL was out. Next North Central University in Naperville, Illinois reached out I liked them but the price for a DIII school was too high. Then I looked at UCM and Tiffin University. I liked both schools but I knew Tiffin was the place to be.
Is there another track event you wish you were good at? What is appealing about it?
Javelin seems so cool. I even started training for it but never got the chance to throw. Every time I was supposed to throw the meet got canceled
What are some hobbies and interests you have outside of running?
I enjoy play video games and spending time with my friends and family. I enjoy Ultimate Frisbee and spike ball.
Who is your role model, and why?
Louis Zamperini because he was amazing person with the heart of a lion.
Everyone has a bucket list, so give us some of things on your list!
Snowboarding, surfing, Sub-four mile, be at the Olympics.
What is the best advice you have received?
Run your own race.
What is your favorite pre-race snack, tradition, etc.?
I drink tea before my race. Get some caffeine in me.
If you could do a sport other than XC/Track, what sport would it be, and why?
Soccer because it was was my first sport and I was pretty good at it.
Any Final Shout outs?
My coach Josh Morris has taught me so much through my four years and a shout out to my mother and father for finding the love of the sport just as I have.
