Odessa Zentz '22 Recruiting Profile

My goals and aspirations are to be both athletically and academically challenged in high school and college. I take great pride in my ability to accept challenges with a trust in processes that result in personal and physical development. I am at my best when academics, training or competition demand the most of me. I am self-driven, but highly coachable and curious about how I can continue to develop and grow.

I appreciate the value of commitment, accountability, hard work and trust, and believe I model those characteristics individually and in a team setting. I am often complimented by my coaches, teammates and peers for my dedication, leadership and compassion.

My ability to adapt to unique or changing situations has also helped me develop important skills. For example, I was a starter for the varsity soccer team in the fall of my freshman year (defender and goalkeeper), before transitioning to cross country as a sophomore and finishing with an all-state performance to help guide our team to third place. As a freshman at the 2019 state track and field championships, I entered as the favorite in the 400 and as an underdog in the 800. I successfully won both events through trust in my training, self-confidence and my ability to manage high-pressure situations, which dates back to my time as the last line of defense playing goalkeeper. I am also highly versatile, as I qualified for the state meet in seven different events as a freshman: 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 4x100 and 4x400.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was unable to compete during my sophomore track and field season, but I remained committed to training on my own to maintain my physical and mental fitness. 

When I complete my high school journey and embark on a collegiate career, I aim to leave a legacy that enhances my team's culture, benefitting future student-athletes. I also hope my legacy extends to the rest of my school, community and state.