CHS track team has added so much joy and purpose to my life. I’ve learned how to work through pain, refrain from negative thoughts, and never allow myself to quit. After I graduate, I hope to have left our team teaching the underclassman how important it is to be there for your teammates and support one another. I’ve made so many quality friends on this team and getting to know each of them has taught me many important qualities that have helped shape me into the athlete I am today. For example, I love the energy my teammate Heidi brings to each practice, the empathy Natalie shows towards her teammates, Dani’s grit, Kate’s determination, Joe’s ability to never complain about practice, the way Agathe and Philippine remain calm under pressure, and the encouragement that Durant, Lizzy, and Salya showed me throughout my freshman year on the team. I’ve also learned so many important lessons from my amazing coaches that will stick with me forever. For instance, Coach Doan’s simple, yet very effective “just go do it” mindset, Coach Cooper’s positive outlook no matter the situation, Coach Tonelson’s ability to roll with the punches when things get tough, and Coach Weinstein’s ability to see past our losses and encourage us to keep pushing for greatness. The most memorable parts from being on this team was running the 4x800m relay at States, long runs in the park with my friends, and jumping in the bay with my teammates after summer practices. Joining this team was by far the best decision I’ve ever made and I am so thankful for the person it has made me. 

~ senior Izzy Perry