Taylor Buzzard always loved running. As an elementary school youngster he aced the mile fitness tests. In middle school, winning races was the norm. When it came time to head to high school Buzzard hoped he would be the next great runner for Chiles High School.
"I knew the team had just finished second in the state. I knew Chiles was a good program and that Coach Gowan was a tough coach. I was excited because I figured I would be a part of a great team."
The Timberwolves lost a majority of their seniors from a team that finished second in the state. From then on Buzzard was on a mission, a mission to keep the Chiles' tradition alive. After his sophomore year he decided to stop playing soccer and focus solely on track and cross country. It's that commitment Buzzard says makes this team gel together."This team has taught me to be very disciplined and committed to what you are doing. You can't be late to practice, banquets, meetings, or anything. If you are you will get disciplined and that teaches a good less for the real world. You always have to be focused on what is going on at that time and you better come prepared for practice every day because most of workouts will really break people down."
Buzzard believes they might not have the most talent, but their hard work is what separates them from other teams. His decision to give up soccer after his sophomore year and focus on running full time has allowed Buzzard to receive a college scholarship. In the fall he will run for the University of Alabama Huntsville. He says several factors went into his decision and now that the recruiting process is over he can put all his effort into his senior season.
"I think there were a few things that made Huntsville the place for me. The coach and the team had a very welcoming feel and it just felt right. Also, the weather and that I'll get to run trails in the mountains had an impact. It means a lot to me to see all my hard work pay off because I know I've worked hard the last four years at Chiles."
As a senior, Buzzard is hoping 2012 goes better than 2011. The Chiles standout got sick right before the season opener. He was diagnosed with Mono and was out for several months. He made it to the state meet, but wasn't quite the same. He says this year he is looking to make a comeback and come out on top.
"I'm hoping to break our 1600 meter record and maybe our 3200 meter record. The record is 4:15 and I believe 9:21, but I'm not positive on that one. Alex Miletich holds them from back in 2003. It would mean everything to me to finish off my career here with something to be remembered by."
Buzzard holds personal best times of 4:25.71 and 9:46.16, but it's not all about him. Over the past three years, the leadership role has been passed down from class to class, now it is his turn to be a leader on the Chiles' team. He says the position means a great deal to him and it's time to start showing that the Timberwolves guys are just as big a threat as the girls.
"I think this year we finally made a comeback. I know that in the next few years the boys will be back on top as well and be a forced to reckon with if they stay on track. That is the key though, because this program isn't for the faint of heart."
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