Abigail Bardwell

I believe that being part of the cross country and track team will make me part of something bigger than myself that will allow me to grow as a student-athlete and overall person. I believe my leadership, dedication, and perseverance make me someone who will improve the team both on and off the track.

As a captain of both my track and cross country teams, I take leadership very seriously. During the season I always strive to create a friendly environment while making the freshman feel welcome. I make sure to personally introduce myself to everyone and begin to show them what our team is all about, showing them our stretches and routines. As a runner, many times people will hit a mental block or have a doubtful attitude when they aren't performing the way they wish, having gone through this before, I also make an effort to talk with my teammates and uplift their attitude. I always make sure everyone on my team feels confidant and comfortable through the season.

Being a captain also means that I must show my leadership in and out of the season. I am part of many programs through my school where I get to further strengthen my leadership skills. Through one of my programs, HUDDLE, I get the amazing opportunity to teach 5th graders about drugs and alcohol. Through this program, the students see me as a safe place and someone they can talk to. Leadership comes with great responsibility and I believe I positively demonstrate this role on and off the field.

I believe it is vital to have a healthy lifestyle year-round in order to perform at my highest ability. I take my health very seriously, always watching what I eat and making sure to maintain a well-balanced diet.

As a student-athlete, I am aware of how the use of drugs and alcohol can detrimentally hurt my body, for that reason, I am completely drug and alcohol-free. I also surround myself with others who also stress the importance of creating healthy lifestyles.

I am currently in many programs provided by the school that allow me to give back to my community. These programs include:

• HUDDLE: Each month I and two team members teach a solo lesson to 5th graders, oftentimes we are informing them on issues such as bullying, stress, drugs, and alcohol. We create a safe space for the kids to ask questions and become more aware of issues they may come across as they get older.

• NHS: A program where I spend hours servicing my community through volunteer opportunities and tutoring.

• LINK: When new freshmen come in I take in a certain group of 10 kids and show them around the school and serve as their mentor for the year, always checking in with them to make sure they are handling the high school life well.

I believe getting involved with the community is key to make sure I am not just getting myself caught up in just school and sports. Being a part of these programs allows me to give back to my community and really appreciate everything I have been provided with.