Although Woodward freshman Avery Case hasn’t been running cross country for long, she’s already learning the tricks of the trade and has already come to appreciate the sport. Case started running last year before beginning eighth grade. She was inspired to join because of a friend’s suggestion.

“It was ironic because she ended up hating it and I ended up loving it,” Case said.

While Case is still new to the sport, she’s been thankful for the upperclassmen on her team for providing guidance and giving her some helpful advice and pointers for competitions.

“They have always told me to have a good sprint-out at the end of the race because it could be the difference between medaling or not,” Case said. “I had to learn that one the hard way this year.”

Cross country has provided many valuable lessons for Case that she can apply to many aspects of her life.

“I think you definitely have to discipline yourself and stay dedicated to the sport,” Case said. “A strong mentality is vital because cross country is just as much a mental sport as it is a physical one.”

When Case needs advice or support off the trail she knows she can turn to her family for advice – especially her grandfather.

“He used to coach cross country and has a love for it,” Case said. “He’s always giving me sound advice and is my number one fan.”

As the season begins to wind down, Case is happy with her first year competing at the high school level.

“I think it’s gone very well. I have set several PR’s and have also worked out some kinks in my race strategy,” Case said. “It always surprises me how supportive this particular sport is. While it is a competitive sport, everyone cheers each other on, regardless of what school they’re from.”

When it comes to academics Case said her favorite subject is math and that she would eventually like to attend the University of Oklahoma and work toward a career in healthcare.