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Shane Streich's Personal Best Marks
800 Meter Run - 1:51.24
1500 Meter Run - 3:58.17
1600 Meter Run - 4:13.80
3000 Meter Run - 8:57.12
3200 Meter Run - 9:43.10
5k Cross Country - 15:34.90
Triple Jump - 42-04.50
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What schools did you consider for your post-high school plans?
I took all five of my official visits over a six week span. I visited the Loyola University (Chicago), Iowa State University, University of Northern Iowa, University of Minnesota, and Stanford.
What ultimately led you to commit to the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities?
I had the schools narrowed down between Iowa State and the U of M, as both were close to home, great academics, great track and cross country programs, and I believed that both those places would help me achieve my goals. Ultimately, though a difficult choice, I decided to choose the U because of the question that I asked myself, "if I couldn't run, where would I feel the most comfortable". I felt more comfortable with the U of M campus than Iowa State's and Minnesota had a lot more academic variety in the areas of math and science. Also, I really enjoyed the group of guys that were already part of the program, as I knew most of them already, and I believe that Coach Plasencia could help develop me to be the best runner that I can. The great academics and great running program are what led me to my decision.
Has Coach Plasencia given you any indications of what event or events you might be specializing in as a collegiate athlete?
After speaking with him many times, I will plan on running both track and cross country. In track, depending on how training goes and how I develop, I will most likely run mid-distance. At first I will probably start off with more of a focus on the 800m, but as I get older my focus may shift to the mile.
Have you identified a major or area of study?
I am planning on majoring in either actuarial science, mathematics, or possibly engineering.
What is your favorite high school memory as it relates to cross country and track?
My favorite high school memory I would say would be winning the State Team Championship in track in 2012. It was just an amazing experience to compete with a small group of guys from our school at state and achieve our big dreams that we had. Along with that, the memories that I will have of being with my teammates throughout the years and becoming a team of "brothers" I will forever remember.
What goals do you have for your remaining high school basketball and track seasons?
With Cross Country being done, I have already started practice for basketball, in which I am a four year starter on varsity including this year. In track, my goals are to run a sub-4:10 1600m, a sub-1:50 800m, and a sub-49 sec. 400m. I also am hoping to threepeat as 1600m Champion for Class A along with repeat in the 800m.
What are your goals for our collegiate career?
My goals for my collegiate career are to run a sub-4:00 mile and/or sub-3:43 1500m, break 1:47 in the 800m, and qualify for nationals multiple times and hopefully medal. Also, I would like to be a part of a highly competitive relay team that could medal and, as a team, bring home a National Title in Track.
What advice would you pass on to an athlete trying to make their college decision?
My advice to other athletes is to pursue what you desire and make a decision based on what YOU want, not others. Make sure the college you plan on attending has good academics because you won't be competing all of your life. Also, start looking at schools early and get a feel for them, along with making a chart of the pros and cons of each school, making it easier to decide what is the right fit.
