Building a Runner by Reed

Building a Runner by Reed - August 2023 Scholarship Essay

During the Summer of 2023 before my Senior year, my father and I developed a running program for all cross country team members and anyone else who wanted to join. I wanted to leave a legacy of the benefits of running at an individual level outside of competitive sports. Running has taught and given me so much in terms of mental and physical health that I wanted to share this experience with others and start something that could continue to help others. Before I started running I was shy, self-conscious, insecure, and anxious. I had anxiety attacks that left me wide awake at night with worry about everything. My parents required me to give sports a try and I could either join football or cross country. At the time I chose the lesser of evils and started my cross country career. I did not love it at first but continued to run even when not required to after my first year. I started training in the off-season and building confidence. I would be where I am today without the benefits running has given me. There was not an off-season program or camps for running in our area as there was for all other sports. I wanted to change that.

After talking with my father on the subject we decided to start one. We interviewed coaches around the area for knowledge on building a running program that not only helps build a runner but make them the best they can be so they see improvement, and build confidence and self-esteem. We talked with runners in the area for advice on areas to run to give the runners the best variety for the best workouts. We developed a weekly running program for morning and evening runs that included short distances and longer distances depending on the runner. One day a week we included plyometrics to help build muscle and reduce injury. We enlisted other parents to help run the program and be available during workout times to guide and encourage runners each day. Weekly workout schedules were sent out to anyone interested. We encourage previous team members and other students to join. We also include game nights, BBQs and movie nights to build connections with each other. Build lasting friendships and a community.

Looking back I am happy with the outcome. We had an average of 5-10 runners attend the workouts and they expressed how much it helped them be more confident and build dedication.
I hope the program we laid out is the foundation for something the community can continue for young runners at any level. I hope the program sees more attendance and becomes something all athletes, runners or not, can use to build strength and self-esteem going into the new school year with whatever sport they attend.