(Photo provided by Mariah Schroeder)
First of all, how did you first get involved
with track and field?
I first got involved with track and field as a junior. My boyfriend and one of my assistant basketball coaches told me I should just try it because they thought I would like it and maybe have some success. And then one day while I was waitressing the sprint coach came in and talked to me and convinced me to do it.
What are all your personal records?
My 100 PR was 12.38 and my 200 PR was 25.25
Do you do, or have you done, any other sports?
I play volleyball and basketball as well.
Do you wish you would have started track sooner, or is track success a more of a bonus to go along with your success in basketball and volleyball?
I played JO volleyball and AAU basketball in the spring so I don't regret those years of not doing track. However, I also don't regret prioritizing some of that time in the spring to track last year, either. It's kind of a success bonus that I'm glad happened to work out.
What is your favorite or most memorable competition you've ever been in?
Most memorable competition would be the section final 4x1 when we qualified for state, and the state 4x1, placing third.
Other than your own teammates, who are some of your favorite athletes to compete against?
I like competing against the guys at practice. Otherwise I try not to worry too much about who I'm running against.
Who are some people that have been most helpful to you in your athletic career?
Definitely my parents, grandparents, and coaches- especially Kevin Klug, Carl Fruechte, Scott Sorenson, Mark Kellen, Dale Baskett, and Reese Waite.
What is a challenge you have had to face as an athlete?
The biggest challenges I've faced as an athlete would be injuries because I hate watching and waiting.
As a first year track athlete, what was your biggest surprise about the sport?
My biggest surprise about track was how tiring it actually is even tho you only run for short periods of time.
What are your main goals for this upcoming track season?
My main goal for track this year is to enjoy my last high school sport and hopefully have even more success with my 4x1 team.
Do you have any interest in trying any field events
I don't want to try field events because I already feel stressed with just the running events and I like to be able to just focus on them.
Do you have any college plans?
I am attending Metropolitan State University Denver and playing basketball for them.
What were some of the things that attracted you to Metropolitan State?
I really got to know my coaches from metro, which definitely helped make my college decision. I also met the team and spent time with them, and I felt that I really fit in and could see myself playing with them. I also like the fact that it's far from home and I can do and see so many new things.
Do you have any rituals, routines, or superstitions either on or off the track?
I always chew gum during sports.
When not doing anything track-related, what might we find you doing?
Either shooting in the gym or working one of my two jobs.
Tell me one bizarre fact about yourself.
I taught my dog how to give hugs.