Six members of the girls track team qualified for regionals after running in the sectional championship on May 20. Sophomore Shana Cooper qualified for the 100-meter dash and 200-meter dash. Seniors Carissa Jones and Asya Hobbs will compete in high jump. The 4×1 team of Cooper, Hobbs, junior Emily Johnson and freshman Lauren Cureto also made it to the regional championship on May 27.
These two girls have an outstanding track record and a lot of pressure on their back; yet, they still manage to remain humble and be the best they can be.
“I was seeded number one. I knew I had to live up to the expectation of winning and advancing to regionals,” Shana said.
Though it was expected of both the girls to do well, Asya knew that she had a point to prove to herself.
“I’ve been advancing to regionals since my freshman year. I think each year, it has gotten harder to advance to regionals because you can’t expect to always get there because you’ve gotten there before,” said Asya. “Plus everyone is getting better so competition becomes harder. Mentally, it is a challenge.”
Both Asya and Shana hope to advance to State again.
“I’m a competitor. I don’t like to lose. Motivation is pride, heart and desire.” Asya stated.
“My main motivation is crossing that finish line in front of everyone else. Shana said “Also my other motivation is winning “athlete of the meet” or “MVP of the meet”. I work really hard to accomplish those awards so it breaks my heart for me not receive that.” said Shana.
Asya too has great achievements. “I’ve improved a lot over a year. Last year, my high jump PR (personal record) was 5’4.25”, now my high jump PR is 5’7”. Even mentally, I’m stronger. My biggest accomplishment I think was the first time I jumped my last year’s PR (5’4.25”) with ease. Just looking back, a person can improve a lot if they’re willing to put in the work.”
“I have improved a lot since last season, My times are dropping, I feel stronger, and I just work hard all the time.”
Looking at these improvements and motivational thoughts it safe to say that these girls will cross the finish line with a high victory.
“As of right now, I [am] very proud of myself overall. Every time I step out on the track I give it my all, and no matter what the results come out to be as long as I gave it my all I’m satisfied.” said Shana Cooper.