Courteney Zboyan knows what it is like to overcome adversity. As a freshman, she won the Palm Beach County XC title and finished 7th in the 3,200m at the 4A state meet. She suffered injuries three of the next four seasons, but battled back to win districts and regionals in cross country her senior season. Zboyan, who was 26th at the state meet and 10th with a new personal best at the FACA Senior All-Star meet talks about her recent commitment to the University of North Florida.
What was the recruiting process like?
First off, I believe I was at a slight disadvantage since I was pretty much injured my whole junior year. Most coaches were tentative about showing interest in me because of that reason. I feel that I experienced all types of schools in recruiting--the small schools that think you are their 'savior' (had that used in an email), the schools that never reply back to your emails, the schools that email you walk-on standards back, the schools that email you repeatedly, the schools that call your house the night before a big meet, the really expensive schools, the schools that go back on their promises, and the school that fits!
All in all, I tried not to stress too much about it, but I am glad it's over! I would always look up every school that contacted me and made it a point to respond to each email and thank each coach personally for their interest.
Where all did you visit/consider?
UNF was the only official visit that I went on. I went on unofficial visits to UCF, Flagler, Embry-Riddle, and, of course, UNF. I also considered Auburn (my mom's alma mater) and FAU.
Why in the end UNF?
First off, I love the state of Florida and did not want to leave it. Second, out of the colleges I was looking at, UNF had the best combination of all the factors I wanted in a college--size, distance from home, academics, an "in-state school with an out-of state feel", and a great team atmosphere with morally strong coaches. Coach Pigg and Coach Hope (McCarty) are very dedicated to their athletes and treat them the way they treat their own family members. Also when I attended the track state meet my freshman year, I randomly told my parents that I could see myself attending UNF in 4 years.
What are you looking forward to the most?
Like every high school senior, I'm excited to graduate high school and begin a new experience. I'm also excited to be on a team with like-minded individuals.
What are your goals?
For starters, I'd love to be able to make the travel team, start running more consistently in the 18's for a 5K, and work on maintaining my high academic marks.
Is there anything specifically you've been working on this season?
I'm working on staying healthy and increasing my miles to make the adjustment to college miles easier.
What meets are you looking forward to?
My high school doesn't travel to big meets, but I'm looking forward to the four meets on our BRAND-NEW red polyurethane track!!!
How do you want to end your high school career?
My main goal is to stay healthy. Any achievements or new PR's, would be a bonus!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Swoop-swoop! Shout-out to fellow soon-to-be Osprey class of 2019 teammates Audrey Carpenter and Emily Kerns! P.S. My signature shades will be going to UNF with me!
