Personal Statement
Track was something I tried in middle school when my football coaches commented how fast I was. However, it has become much more to me. I love the sport and am not ready to stop competing after high school. Nothing can compare to the excitement of race day - exploding out of the blocks, passing other runners, and crossing the finish line is a great feeling. The chance to be part of a college team, going up against some of the best athletes in the country, has become a dream for me. Track is not just a competition against other athletes, it is a competition with myself. It is something that allows me to constantly challenge and push myself. It is something that I can work hard and excel at. The thought of continuing my love of track at the collegiate level, is extremely exciting.
I know that my work ethic, coachability, and leadership skills are like no one else’s, and would make me a valuable asset to any track program. I will help the team score points and win meets, but I also bring more. I am always watching films of my races, constantly looking for ways to get better, and continuously training to be faster. My coaches have always complimented me on how well I listen and execute on their advice. I have seen all these results start to pay off. In the last year, I improved my 200 time from 23.23 to 22.55; my 100 time from 11.55 to 11.01 (hand time); and my 60 time from 7.69 to 7.09. Prior to my junior year, I had never run the open 400, but my coaches felt I would be well suited for this event. I ran the open 400 for the first time this year in the winter season (52.68), and by spring had improved my time to 51.11. I know that I am just getting started, and am excited about having an explosive senior year, and dropping my times even more. This season, I also experienced success as my coaches helped me focus more on the strategy of races, based on specific competitors and how they like to run the race. It has taken my sprinting to another level. I have also stepped into the role of a leader on my team this year. I take great pride in finding ways to help my teammates learn, work harder and get better. This friendship within my team is so important to me. I have been fortunate in being a part of several great relay teams, including a 4x200 team that went to the Pennsylvania indoor state championship this year, and got fourth place. I am confident that I have much to offer any college program and hope you will give me a chance to show you.
I remain open to colleges of different sizes and locations. More than anything else, I am looking for the right program that will be a good fit for me both athletically and academically. I am seeking a program that will be competitive and provide an opportunity for me to contribute. I am still trying to decide where my studies will take me next, but I know that I would love for track to remain a part of my life. I am eager to learn more about specific track programs and find the perfect spot for me.