Andrew Shields '23 Recruiting Profile

While growing up, my parents often claimed that my favorite sport was whatever I was playing at the time. While there was some truth behind that, they noticed that I really enjoyed running once I joined a local track program before junior high. With the help of workout routines my mom created, I achieved my goal of running a sub six minute mile at the state TAAF meet that summer. Once I reached high school, it took me a year or so to find my footing, but with the help of my current coach, I began to see results from my training. The biggest improvement being that I ran a 16:45 3-mile at my sophomore district cross country meet.

College is the next big goal for me. Although I haven’t chosen a major yet, I am determined to earn my degree, while earning letters as a member of a collegiate track or cross-country team. It would seem my talents are more suited for the middle distances races and short cross-country races, but I would like to try the steeplechase, also. Ultimately, I would like to compete in (and win!) many races throughout my college years as both an individual and as a team contributor. At the collegiate level, I will continue to be committed to my team...much as I am now when my alarm rings at 5:45 to wake up and get to practice.