Isabella Lemus '26 Recruiting Profile

I have always had the goal of attending college for my academics, but competing athletically at the college level has been my new dream. I started running. when I was 5 years old and it has always been a passion of mine. It started with my dad putting me in fun local races and I would go out there and run for fun. Running has continued to be so enjoyable for me and I find it very calming to be able to go out in nature and take in all the surroundings on a nice long run. I only did local middle school track and cross country races. High school was a big step as it became more competitive and challenging, but I was up for the challenge.

I had an amazing and fun freshman year, being on Varsity for both the cross country and track season and competed in CIF for both seasons. I think these sports have taught me how to be a part of an individual sport, but still a part of a team. Cross country is more of a team than track, but in both sports, I am always trying to meet the athletes on my team, especially in track. I know everyone has their different events, but I always try to meet everyone and help incoming freshman feel a part of the team and cheer for them during meets to motivate them to do their best. In both of these sports, I have met the nicest people, which is the one thing I love about cross country and track. Everyone is always there to cheer each other on and being a part of an all-girls school, Our team is trully a sisterhood.

In terms of academics, I've maintained a 4.00 GPA since freshman year, showing how dedicated I am to excel not only on the track, but in the classroom. I have encountered many injured throughout my life and I am currently facing a knee muscle imbalance injury and going through phyisical therapy to heal it as soon as possible so I can get back on the track. I do my very best to keep myself healthy and in the best shape possible to achieve my short-term and long-term goals academically and athletically.

Competing in track and cross country pushes me to do my best in school and, overall, in life. Through injury and being a student-athlete, I am able to navigate different challenges that arise for me. I am confident that my dedication, resilience and fun and passionate personality will be a valuable asset to any collegiate team. I am excited to embrace the opportunites and challenges that college has to offer knowing that I believe that my success can grow through having a postiive community or team around me that will push me to be my very best self.