Olivia Evans – Cross Country

When did you start running?

I started running when I was in sixth grade.  I really wanted to participate in a sport so I decided why not try Cross Country?  Little did I know, it was about to become a huge part of my life.

What did you do to prepare for this past cross country season?

This summer I trained hard and prepared for the upcoming season.  I did a variation of speed and hill workouts, and then some days I did long tempo runs.  In Colorado Springs, you can’t really go down a hill without having to go back up it, so running hills is an advantage for the Kadets!

Do you want to run in college?

I want to run in college and hopefully I will because I love cross country and don’t want it to end yet.  Sooner or later, racing won’t be an option so I might as well enjoy it while I can!

How did you do at state?

State this year went well and I still can’t believe that was the last high school race I will ever run.  I was 21^st place in the state and had a fairly good time for a tough course like Cheyenne Mountain.

What was your personal best for the season?

My personal best for this season was 18:56 (5 Kilometers), which I ran at Monument Valley.  I was really happy with that because my goal was to break 19.  I had just broken 20 last year so I’ve improved a lot just in one season, which I was excited about.

How did your team do at state?

State was very fun and successful for both boys and girls.  The boys’ team ended up 5^th place with seniors Andy Boyle, and Danyon Anderson as the top finishers for the team.  The girls took home 6^th place with sophomore Katie Rainsberger taking the lead for our team.

Fun Questions-

Who is your role model or inspiration?

My role model and inspiration is definitely my older sister Amelia Evans.  She was the one who got me started in running and has helped me train during the off season.  She is always there when I need a little pep talk and sends me a quote and picture every race with something motivational to get me pumped up.

What is your favorite workout music?

My favorite workout music is a tie between Katy Perry, Kesha, and Kevin Rudolf.  Their songs are catchy and help me stay focused and keep moving.

What is your favorite race ever?

Every year my favorite race is the Arapahoe Invitational because it’s the first one of the season and there is lots of fun with the river crossings.  It’s a very exciting way to kick off the season.

Would you rather run in the mud/grass or the cold/heat?

I would rather run in the cold/heat than the mud/grass because you can block the temperature out of your head while you are running.  It is such a mental sport and everything you do is based on your mind.

John Sims – Soccer

When did you start playing soccer?

When I was 6.

What did you do to prepare for this high school season?

I had club soccer in the spring and after that I just tried to stay in decent shape.

Do you want to play soccer in college?

Maybe. I’m not sure yet.

What was your goal going into the state playoffs?

To play to our full potential and if we do that, we will win.

What was your favorite game of the season?

As of now, Cheyenne Mountain.

Fun Questions-

Who is your role model or inspiration?

My dad.

What is your favorite workout music?

I don’t work out to music but, before games I try to listen to something relaxing.

What is your favorite team to watch?

Air Academy football.

Would you rather play on grass or turf?

Short, good grass. Although turf isn’t bad either.