Name: Laura Volan
School: Scarboorugh High School
What was your most memorable race? My most memorable race was probably Cumberland Counties my sophomore year, because I got huge PRs in both the mile and 2 mile, and I gained confidence in myself and learned what I was capable of.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years? My biggest competition through high school, among the many extremely talented girls I've run against, has honestly been myself. Running is such a mental sport, and I let everything get to my head more than I'd like to admit. I have found that believing you are capable of great things is a key to success.
What was your greatest accomplishment? I think my greatest accomplishment was probably being part of our amazing XC team that took the state title in 2014. Motivating each other and working hard for our goal was a great experience I'll always cherish.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school? I would have tried to be more relaxed before races so I wouldn't stress myself out so much, and I would have taken initiative to do more workouts during my summer training.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome? I had to deal with coming back from iron deficiency and working through problems with my hips. Injuries and setbacks happen to us all, it seems to be prone among us runners, but it was frustrating at times for sure.
What will you miss the most? I will miss the amazing community of runners from my school and other schools across the state and New England. Everyone I have encountered at both XC and track meets have been good sports and very friendly. I met a lot of outstanding athletes and people during the past four years, and I'll miss seeing all the familiar faces.
What advice you would give to younger athletes? Don't overwork yourself, but put your best foot forward and give your all in workouts and practices. Believe that you can be great, and don't be afraid of a challenge. Just make sure you keep your body and mind healthy and balanced along the way!
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals? Coach Kelly has many famous words of wisdom, but his faith in me has given me confidence in my running career and he has always kept me motivated as a student athlete. I know I will go on to college with a great running base from high school as well.
What are your college plans? I am attending Springfield College in Massachusetts for the next 6 years to pursue my doctorate in Physical Therapy. I will be competing on the XC and track teams there as well.
Who would you like to say thank you to? Thank you to my family for the support, Coach Kelly and Coach Curry for the coaching, my friends for coming to my meets to cheer me on no matter how far they might be, and to the Hardcore Distance Four for being my favorite running buddies.
Is there anything else you'd like to add? Thanks to everyone who made the past four years the best experience of my life. And never stop running!
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Do you know a class of 2016 track and field or cross country athlete? We'd like to salute them! Have them answer the following questions plus send 2-3 photos (can not be from another website or publication) to dveilleux@milesplit.us
