A member of the varsity cross country team and National Honor Society, Memorial High School’s Sienna Collins is enjoying her final season as a runner for EMHS.
“My season has gone pretty good. I’ve only ran one meet which went well. I won and ran a 17:42. It was a little short of a 5k. I also won Pre-state and was very happy with that,” said Collins.
While competing, Collins understands the mental game and what it takes to stay focused on long runs.
“I think a lot during a race. If there is someone in front of me, I think about closing the gap and if there is someone behind me, I tell myself to never let them pass me. When the pain starts to really hurt, I tell myself it will be over quicker if you speed up a little (which helps me push the pace). I tell myself to breathe and focus on what is ahead,” said Collins.
As one of the top runners in the state, Collins plans on attending college and continue competing while pursuing a degree.
“After I graduate high school, I plan on going to college and continuing to run. I’m not sure what I want to study, but I’m thinking about majoring in Sports Management and minoring in nutrition,” said Collins.
The senior said she loves her teammates and is grateful to have parents who support her.
“The thing I love most about my teammates is how supportive they are. We are always cheering each other on during workouts and races. Every girl on this team is that way and I love it,” Collins said. “My parents have been a big influence in my life. They have taught me to be who I am today.”
Away from school, Collins said she enjoys spending time with friends and family. “In my free time I love doing puzzles, hanging out with my friends, watching a movie with my family, and playing any sports.”
