Ryan Strauss '16 Recruiting Profile

Fall of my freshman year, I went out for golf and played fairly well.  In the spring, I wanted to go out for Track as I'd done in Middle School.  This wasn't typical for my high school (part of Class 4A - with the largest schools in the state).  If you wanted to run distance and mid-distance, you went out for Cross in the fall.  So, it was a surprise to the coaches that I could run fairly well as they'd not seen me before.  By the time the spring was over, I'd suprised a lot of people by qualifying for State (out of 24 qualifiers, I was one of only 3 freshman).

Since that time, I've continued to dedicate myself to exceeding the expectations set forth by my coaches and my team - as well as my own expectations.  I've not always been able to do this - but it's not been for lack of decication and effort - and I've learned a lot from the missed expectations.  I've also been very fortunate - with a lot of work, strong coaching, and great teammates - to have some great successes:  qualifying for state individually in Cross and Track four separate times; being part of five separate state Cross and Track qualifying teams; breaking the school record in the 4x800 twice (now 7:57) and placing 6th at state.  Qualifying as part of the 4x800 team for the Drake Relays in 2014 and 2015 was probably the highlight so far.  I was able to see firsthand the step I'd like to take next - running in college and being part of a team who dedicates itself to success.  It was an incredible experience to be a part of and to witness!

Beyond Cross and Track, I've dedicated myself to an eleven year journey through Boy Scouts.  From a Tiger Cub to Eagle Scout, from Scuba diving in the Florida Keys, camping at -17 degrees on the ice northeast of Ely, MN, in the dead of winter, to backpacking 80 miles through the mountains of New Mexico, I've spent years challenging myself, being part of a great group of fellow scouts, and attaining great heights.  I hope that this will be seen as another example of challenging goals which are only attained through long term dedication.

The next step for me is clear.  I want to achieve new heights by being part of a strong team in college.  I hope that this background can give coaches a feel for who I am and will help determine if I am the runner that will help the team achieve the goals of the school in Track, Cross, and Life!