The 2014-2015 school year has provided some great highlights in both cross country and track across the Sunshine State. In the coming weeks many of our seniors will head out to start their college careers both athletically and academically. We wanted to salute them one more time in this special feature and say thank you for your support over the years.
What was your most memorable race/moment?
My most memorable moment was the 2014 Cross Country State Finals. I don't think I could ever forget that feeling. Being able to compete at that level was an honor and the weather as well as the beautiful course made it even more memorable.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
My teammates, Julia Siegel, Jen Lima, Margaret Woodard, and Erica Lersch, and Olivia Suski from Seminole High School. They are my best friends and greatest competitors in every race.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment would be qualifying for states in cross country and twice as a 4x800 team. It was also incredible to run at the FACA Senior All-Star meet.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I would focus more on racing and training right rather than stressing out about nerves. I spent countless races lost in my own mind and that definitely held me back.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
A very large part of this sport is mental and I had to learn to stay calm and focus on what I could control before and during my races. Often times, I battled myself mentally in order to complete a set or give my all in a race. I think that racing your own mind is the toughest part about the sport.
What will you miss the most?
I'm going to miss race days like crazy. The atmosphere around the school and within the team on the day of a race is exhilarating. My sister and I would also have our pre meet playlist that we would blast while we got ready and while we drove to the track. We would be silent and just listen and get in the mindset. Same with after the meets. My team and I liked to go out after, even if the meet ended at midnight, and celebrate with each other. I am also going to miss handing off the baton to my 4x8 girls.
What advice you would give to younger athletes?
If it is what you want, don't be afraid to work for it. You will only kick yourself after the race if you didn't give your all. That being said, don't be too hard on yourself. Sometimes you have to look around after the race or during the late meet and realize how much it all means to you and how lucky you are. If you have even a second left of it, make it last.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I would like to thank my sister, Julia Siegel, for teaching me about will, competition, and passion throughout our running careers and being my biggest supporter, especially when she couldn't race. I would also like to thank my 4x8 teammates, Jen Lima, Margaret Woodward, and Erica Lersch, for keeping me determined while giving me the experience of a lifetime.
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
My coaches influenced me with their hard workouts. They molded me into a stronger, more determined person on and off the track and I value that greatly.
What are your college plans?
I will be attending UF in the summer.
Seniors, don't be left out! Submit your Salute to Seniors answers to Todd.Grasley@flosports.tv and be featured on the site!
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