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?
In high school my most memorable race had to be when I won the 2a state title in the 200m dash my senior year. Going in willing to fight; I fell short in the 100m dash and placed second. At that moment I knew that I could not go home and settle for anything less than a gold medal. I pushed and fought with all my might to be number one and It was one of the best feelings of my life.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
I would say Alfreda Steele was my biggest competition over the years. We have only raced each other three times in my past four years, but it was at a do or die moment where we had to face off with one another. There could only be one winner and it was all about who wanted it the most. Alfreda pushed me to touch one of the top times of my season and I am grateful of the competition I had that day.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
Over all the accomplishments I have made my best one was being able to commit to a school that was just as committed to me. The love and support my future coaches gave me in just a short time showed me that they really cared and had my best interest at heart.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your vaulting career in high school?
If I could do it all over again, I would train harder in my earlier years and take things more serious because with all I had to offer. Great things could have came early, but I am grateful that they came when they did.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The most difficult obstacle I had to overcome was self-fear. I had to learn that I can run with anybody. No matter who was in the race I needed to run my heart out and to never be afraid of any challenges that came my way.
What will you miss the most?
My family and friends being able to come and cheer me on at my meets will be what I miss the most.
What advice you would give to younger athletes?
I advise every athlete while young to always work as if your future depended on it. There is no greater feeling than being able to have your college paid for without any worries. Discipline yourself while young because it will take you a long ways whether on the track or in the work place. Lastly, know that sacrifice is key to mastering things in your life. In order to be something great you will sacrifice a lot, but in the end it will all be worth it.
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
My coach has taught me if you want to be number one you have to always train as number one. Never can you slack because there is always someone fighting just as hard for the same spot. In all that you do, always leave it on the track. Also, he has taught me that in life things do not always go as planned but with patience and work good things will come in due time. With these words I knew nothing else mattered when I stepped on the track, I had to just give it my all.
What are your college plans?
I plan to attend East Carolina University in the fall where i will continue my track career, and start the journey of getting my degree then masters in psychology.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
First, I would like to thank God who is head of my life, who made all things possible for me. I thank my parents and friends for all the love and support. Lastly, I want to thank all of my coaches past, present, and future because at some point you believed in me to do great things. I hope I have made you all proud pushing to be the best young lady, student, and athlete you have all molded me to be.
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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