(Photo courtesy of Cali Gumpel)
Former Vero Beach High School standout, Cali Gumpel, has been making waves with her nationally ranked South Florida State University Women's team. The former 4A Region 3 1600m champ has found herself among a group of driven individuals, so I decided to catch up with her and ask her a few questions.
How's your first collegiate cross country season going?
My first experience is going good over all. It's very different from high school. Your whole day is focused on training. I'm learning what's important in my schedule and what isn't worth my time.
What are some goals you've set for yourself this year?
I want to break 20 this season. I've been close but haven't reached it yet
What's your favorite part about being a student-athlete?
I feel like being a college athlete you are thrown into a group of girls who have the same schedule as you so you easily connect quickly and create strong relationships. That's my favorite part. I personally think about being a college athlete is the relationships it brings.
How are you enjoying the college atmosphere?
At times college can be very stressful, but the independence college brings is amazing. I've grown so much over the months already. I've learned how to live life on my own and matured. I've seen who my real friends are and I try to surround myself with people who want the best for me and my future. Professors in college are very different than teachers in high school because you either do your work or you don't. It's your future.
What made you choose South Florida State University?
Honestly, money that was offered to me caught my attention at first to this college, but then I was introduced to the coach and saw the school for myself and knew this is where I was suppose to be.
What do you miss most about your high school career?
I miss the afternoon practices. 6am practice at college are pretty tough and in high school you had it good. I also miss all my old teammates.
How is the training in comparison to your high school training?
Overall, I think high school and college training are the same except in college I'm pushing myself every practice as hard as I can because running has become my job now, not just an extra thing I do in school. I run more volume in college and weight training two times a week.
Who is your favorite professional athlete and why?
Steve Prefontaine is my favorite hands down. His passion and crave to become the best he can be is inspiring.
Do you have any pre-race rituals?
We pray and do our team cheer. Our coach also hands up special made ribbons she made the night before that we tie to our shoes. The ribbons have little sayings on them that motivate us.
What shoes do you prefer to train in/race in?
I run in any trainers honestly. I'm a neutral runner so it doesn't matter.
If you were stranded on an island with only 3 things, what would they be?
Hmm that's hard. I guess a good book, lighter, and a bar of soap.
Do you want to know more about a particular alumni or have a good story of one? Let us know! Todd.Grasley@flosports.tv