Name: Lauren Stoops
School: Orono High School
What was your most memorable race?
My junior year state meet was at Foxcroft Academy. The 100 meter dash finals were coming up. Going into the meet i was seeded first but from my trial time going into finals I was seeded second. I had already finished sprinter warm up so i was jogging around and doing some accelerations to stay warm. Many other athletes were warming up as well but many were socializing with one another. Mr. Libby encourages us to be friendly with other athletes and to wish them luck because we are all there to better ourselves but there is a time and place. The starter calls over the Girls 100 meter finals, we get into our lanes, set up our blocks, wish one another good luck, and next thing you know the gun goes off. I felt like I blistered it. It showed me that you never know when someone is going to sneak up and put more work or more effort than you. But as long as you stay focused and stay warm you can conquer what you set out to.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
In no specific order Krystal Grant, Ashley Anderson, Emma Egan, Christie Woodside, and Fern Morrison
What was your greatest accomplishment?
Becoming a better team mate and learning more about my teams accomplishments. Nothing is better than wrapping yourself up in other's victories.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I would tell younger self that the 400 meter dash isn't going to kill me and I would of ran more in the off season.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
My mind and body. Believing that I could run certain times or with certain people and ignoring my body when it wanted to give up.
What will you miss the most?
The competition, being competitive and hitting the wall during a race but knowing that you'll bust through it and leaving it all on the track
What advice you would give to younger athletes?
Natural talent is nice. But hard work and dedication will beat you every time. You have to be willing to work no matter how talented or not you are.
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
All of my coaches have been real with me. They let me know if i can correct something or make something better. They help me see the whole picture. In all they have helped me become a better individual as an athlete and person. Teaching me that if you work hard and push through the wall anything is possible.
What are your college plans?
I plan on attending Urshan College and getting a degree in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Business.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I would like to say thank you to my competitors. its been great watching us progress and push one another to our limits. Also, Mr. Libby for pushing me in every work out mentally and physically. You have helped me develop my determination and work ethic. Most of all my dad Kyle Stoops. Track is one of the many things that we have in common and can share. I know that every time I run his heart races as if he was running and breathing with me. He has taught me many things about this sport and how it can relate to life. He has never doubted me and taught me to leave it all out there.
"If you leave everything you have and all your heart out on the track, who can be mad at you?" - Kyle Stoops
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Its been a great four years and i wouldn't trade it for anything.
More Coverage
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
