Athlete Spotlight: Alyssa Elliott of Bangor High School

With the indoor track and field season basically on hold without many competitions, we wanted to highlight some of the top athletes in the state. For the next month or so we will have interviews with athletes across the state. Today's feature is with Bangor senior standout Alyssa Elliott

When did you first start running, and do you recall any of your childhood races?

I started running as young as five years old but did not start competing until I was nine. I competed for the Bangor Rec Department and I remember many of my childhood meets. Every Thursday of the summer I would compete.

Was there a certain moment when you realized you'd be able to compete at such a high level?

I have been asking my parents about competing in college since I was in middle school. In my freshman year of high school, I won PVCs in the triple jump and that was a big confidence boost.

Finding the right balance between jumping and running has always been a struggle. My junior year of high school I started to find the right balance of training for different events.

How has COVID impacted your training this winter as you prepared for the season?

It has been difficult to stay focused on training to prepare for the season but I think it has helped me train independently. Over the summer and fall, I was able to jump but it has been difficult recently due to the weather.

What have you missed most about not competing over the last year?

I have always been a very competitive person so I have definitely missed competing and feeling nervous before every meet. I also have so many amazing friends that I have not been able to see. I miss the atmosphere of the meets the most.

You signed with Uconn this fall, how was the college recruiting process? What made you choose Uconn?

The college recruiting process was very different than a normal year. I was not able to have official or unofficial visits with any college. I was able to drive around the UConn campus one time so it was a big step to commit but I am beyond excited. From the beginning of my college recruiting process, I wanted to go to a school with a good team atmosphere. I picked UConn because of that and because they are a large school with many options academically.

Is there another track event you wish you were good at? What is appealing about it?

I have done almost every event and I have found that I admire distance runners. I enjoy watching the mental aspect of distance events and the competitive strategy.

What are some hobbies and interests you have outside of running?

Outside of running I really enjoy hiking, painting, and being with my friends. I also can't deny my love for binge-watching movies with my sisters.

Who is your role model, and why?

I have many role models who have influenced my love of track. I remember following Sanya Richards-Ross and Allyson Felix from a young age. I have also grown to enjoy watching Colleen Quigley and Kate Hall compete. They have influenced me by being so open about the struggles they have faced and the hard work required to compete at a high level.

Everyone has a bucket list, so give us some of the things on your list!

I have always wanted to travel. Whenever I go to a new place I always want to explore the outdoor activities and experience the local culture.

What is the best advice you have received?

One of my dad's best friends came to a meet and told me to "just jump farther" and I feel that is the perfect advice.

What is your favorite pre-race snack, tradition, etc.?

I have always been very superstitious regarding track meets. The night before every meet I have chocolate-covered strawberries, then in the morning I have eggs and oatmeal, and during a meet, I don't have time to eat anything other than a granola bar. I always warm up the same way and make sure to have my music playing.

Elliott's High School Personal Bests