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Personal Narrative: My High School Cross Country Team

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I stood in tense anticipation, waiting for the official to sound the gun. This would be the most challenging and rewarding run of my life thus far. Squinting under the bright sunlight, I readied myself, preparing to give everything I had in what would be the culmination of my high school cross country career. Hearing my heartbeat in my ears, remaining steady with deep breaths, I tried to recall what had inspired me to end up here.

Nearly three years earlier, I had a similar case of nervous energy, as I waited to begin a much different challenge. Deciding that I wanted to take part in my school's cross country team, I had never ran over a mile before by choice. After playing soccer my freshman year, my family and friends convinced me to run, to keep me conditioned for the next season. I didn't realize how much work would be necessary to earn a spot competing.

At first, my goal was simply not to die, as that's what …show more content…
Instead of just surviving, I wanted to put forth enough work, inside and outside of practice, to compete at the varsity level. Running miles each day, sprinting on the track, and running up hills, I trained even harder. Determination and perseverance were the keystones to subsist in this sport.

Working at my varsity level proved that I had qualities to become a captain. I was able to communicate with the team, getting them to meet similar goals and become more united. Having a stronger bond helped to get through the hard times without ever giving up.

Cross country helped me balance a grueling athletic schedule, with a difficult academic load. Running demanded hours of discipline and practice. Had I not been resilient and decided to continue, my high school experience would've been drastically different. I would've missed out on valuable experiences, great memories, and meaningful relationships.
My next challenge is college, but I know that my involvement with cross country has prepared me for being a part of MSU's student

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