Entering high school for the first time can be somewhat intimidating. Add the fact that you come in with some high expectations to perform at a high level as an athlete and you multiply the stress. For Daley Rice, a freshman cross country runner at Shawnee High School, the transition has been somewhat smooth, and the team has welcomed her with open arms.
“What I love most about my team is that we all support each other in practice and at meets. We all get along and all want to succeed individually and as a team,” said Rice. “All the upperclassmen have accepted me on the team and make me feel accepted. Both the boys and girls have helped answer any questions I have, and they will help me with anything I need.” Rice comes into the program having made a name for herself in middle school as one of the top runners in the state.
“I have been running cross country for the past four years, this will be my fifth year. I started as a fifth grader at Pleasant Grove. I was ORES state runner up my sixth grade year and state champion my eighth grade year. I also play basketball and run track,” said Rice.
Winning state as an eighth grader has been her biggest accomplishment to date, but Rice has her sights set on helping her team win and competing at state at the high school level.
“My parents motivate me to run, and I love to compete. I’m also motivated to run because it helps me succeed in basketball and track. When running I’m thinking of running faster and improving my time,” said Rice.
In the spring Rice plans on competing in track for Shawnee.
“I will be in track this spring. I run the mile, 800m , 400m and 4 x 400 relay usually,” said Rice.
Rice said he has enjoyed everything high school has to offer, and she has met some great teammates and coaches.
“What I love most about Shawnee High School are the coaches and teammates in whatever sport I’m competing in. I have some great teachers and administrators that are willing to help me out to succeed,” said Rice. “My favorite subjects in school are English and Biology.”
