Name: Alexa Clark
High School: Timber Creek
College: La Salle University
What was your most memorable race/throw/jump/vault/moment?
My most memorable race had to be XC sectionals my junior year. I had pulled my groin and was almost not allowed to race but I knew we had a shot to make states for the first time in almost 8 years. I did it for the team and although I had been in a world of pain it was so worth it when our team was announced, I'll never forget that moment.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
SJ was always filled with talent like the Seneca and Shawnee girls who were always pushing me. It was great to have friends and competition with them, it was really what SJ running was all about.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
I'd say being the first DMR in Timber Creek history to qualify for natty's or being ranked the #1 team in New Jersey during indoor, that was a cool thing to hear on the announcements! Individual accomplishments are cool but having such a great team to back you up is an accomplishment in itself.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running or field career in high school?
I wouldn't get so nervous, fear holds you back.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
Injuries, I've had my fair share. Now I can't stress enough how important it is to listen to your body and be smart about your training!!
What will you miss the most?
I think overall just the high school running experience, it really taught me so many things about myself and it was such a great time in my life.
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
Coach Grottini especially had a great influence with respect to my performances. My senior year he said something to me that I don't think I will ever forget. I had been struggling with a pretty serious injury so when I started my comeback it was very difficult to even finish a workout. He told me "Perservere! Just keep telling yourself 5 minutes more." Soon it became "okay I can do this," and I think that taught me one of the biggest lessons.. that it really is all about attitude.
What are your college plans?
I will be running XC and Track for La Salle University and studying Nursing! Go Explorers!
Who would you like to say 'thank you' to?
I am so thankful to all of my coaches for putting up with me, my parents for coming to every race, and my teammates because we accomplished some pretty great things. I don't know if I would've survived high school without you girls by my side. #weruntheville
