What was your most memorable race/moment?
Over the course of my four years at Bishop Kenny, I have been part of some great teams, and have made some amazing memories. My most memorable moment of my high school career was winning the state championship as a team in cross country in 2012. We were determined to regain the top spot after coming in second the previous yea. We put in hours of work and thousands of miles. In the end it all paid off when the gold medals were placed around our necks and I will never forget that feeling.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
My biggest competition over my four years have been my teammates. They have pushed me to my limits year in and year out. They have kept me accountable for my actions and have kept me on the right track. I would like to thank them for that.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
I have been blessed with an amazing career at Bishop Kenny and have been blessed with many accomplishments. The one that tops them all, however, has to be winning the state championship in the mile my junior year.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
My running career in high school has been a roller coaster on which I have experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, but I would not have changed one thing because those low points taught me perseverance.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
I came into my senior year with lofty goals and huge expectations. When I could not fulfill these dreams, I became frustrated. The most difficult obstacle for me to hurdle was my own doubt. There were times when I had convinced myself that the season was a failure, that I had lost the passion for the sport. I kept running and it started to click. I started to feel like myself again. Though I didn't accomplish all I wanted, this year has definitely taught me more about myself and the sport than have the previous three years.
What will you miss the most?
The team I ran with for four years became not just a group of friends, but a band of brothers. I will miss the family atmosphere that all of us shared. I will miss going out to practice and meets and being able to run with my best friends, my brothers.
What advice would you give to younger athletes?
Coach knows best. Listen to what the coaches say because they know the sport and they know what will make you the best runner you can be.
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
Coach Curran has been one of the most influential people in my life. He has taught me not only how to be a great runner, but how to be a great man. He has taught me the importance of not giving up even if it seems that all the cards are stacked against you.
What are your college plans?
I will be running cross country and track at Florida Southern College in the fall and majoring in Biology.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
First and foremost, I would like to say thank you to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Without Him, none of this would have been possible. Thank you to Coach Curran for teaching me to be great on and off the track. I would like to thank my parents for everything they have done to foster my love for running. I would also like to thank my teammates for always being there for me. Finally, I would like to thank Bishop Kenny for giving me the chance to be part of a tradition of excellence.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Never give up. Keep running because "There is no telling how many miles you will have to run while chasing a dream." Go Mocs!
More Coverage
Do you know a class of 2014 track and field or cross country athlete? We'd like to salute them! Have them answer the following questions plus send 2-3 photos (can not be from another website or publication) to Todd.Grasley@flocasts.com.
