If you told Cade Zimmerman when he was starting high school that he would go to college on a running scholarship, he would probably say you were crazy. When the Chiles senior began running he thought it would help him earn a a soccer scholarship. Now the recruiting process is over, for the 3A Cross Country Finals, sixth place finisher. Zimmerman says it was different from what he had imagined.
"At first it was hard explaining to coaches I was sick for junior track season, but many understood that sickness happens and there’s nothing you can do about it. It was full of tough decisions and a TON of research for each school. Besides being a little strenuous, there were many memories made and I had a blast. The final selection was by far the toughest part because each school had so much to offer."
Zimmerman who had double digit offers, narrowed his list down to five schools before making the final decision. Memphis,, Stephen F. Austin, and Louisville all vyed for his committment, but it was Appalachian State in Boone, North Carolina that felt like the perfect fit. He says once the decision was made he felt like he could finally breathe and a giant relief was listed off his shoulders, replaced by utter excitement.
"Appalachian State is such a unique school. Ranging from the location to the people, there is something special about the place. Not only, did I love the school, but the team was awesome as well. Coach Curcio is a great guy and all I hear is good things about him, especially from Coach Braman at FSU."
Besides the running experience, Zimmerman is excited to get the full college experience that Appalachian State has to offer. The senior is looking forward to meeting his new teammates and making awesome memories down the line. Until then, he has more memories to make in the Chiles' uniform. A member of the runner-up cross country team this season he says there are a lot of times wearing the maroon, black and silver that he will remember.
"It feels like my high school running career began much more than just there years ago. I’m sure there are plenty of single moments that I will remember, yet I think the most important thing to remember is just how much work I’ve put in to make it this far and the sacrifices made: Waking up early for practice instead of sleeping in, those workouts where you just want to quit in the middle but push through, not being able to hang out with friends as much, having to cut down on Reese’s cups (most difficult thing to do), etc."
On the track he has high goals. After battling an airway inflammation last year, he says he is anxious for the season to finally begin.
"I’m looking forward to getting that amazing feeling of a new PR back. Our team is still relatively young because Sean Turner and myself are the only male distance seniors this year, so it will be great to see a younger team do really well throughout the year. My main goal is to get points in whichever event I’m in to help the team do as well as we can."
Personal Bests
- 1,600 Meter Run - 4:29.70
- 3,200 Meter Run - 9:44.91
-
5,000 Meter Run - 15:32.68
More Coverage
