Kaitlyn Johnson '24 Recruiting Profile

   It's mind-boggling to think of me, an all-around academic prodigy and working teen, competing in Track & Field. My parents nearly suffered a heart attack the moment I mentioned sprinting around a track. As an only child born in an entirely different state than the majority of my family, I didn't grow up alongside siblings or family members my age whom played sports or would have inspired me to join in any sport at all. During my primary school years, I made the decision to engage in dancing and cheer. Dancing and cheering seemed to be an outlet to expand my circle of friends and being invited to all the cool kids' parties over the years. They failed to put my cerebral or physical abilities to the test.

   I've always enjoyed being challenged. During high school, I was known to be the student whom asked for extra credit, stayed involved in the community, and even desired to take as many tough or "hard" core classes as necessary. Being among individuals who push and inspire me to be the greatest version of myself inspired me to start running track. My stomach and head ached at the notion of running track. I had no idea what to anticipate. Track became enjoyable for me as I formed friendships with my coaches and teammates. It's not ideal to be part of a squad who's objective was to win or PR in every race. Although the prospect of victory is thrilling, it is not the only goal that I as runner set for myself.

   My ambition is to compete at the collegiate level for a D1 school. It was not simple to juggle employment, athletics, academics, and personal life during high school. But, I believe I will overcome obstacles throughout my college years as I meet new people and have the support of coaches and family members who want me to succeed. Competing in a team with other athletes who also maintain a mindset of having enjoyment, evolving, building stamina, and having respect for opponents on the track is what I intend to achieve as a developing athlete.