When you think of cross country, you usually don’t consider that it’s a sport where you could get a concussion. Well, during the IHSAA cross country state championship, sophomore Laurel Black was in 6th place until she took a hard fall 50 meters from the finish line. Although Black did not receive her anticipated state medal, she doesn’t need an award to define the hard work she put into the season. This upcoming track season, Black is striving to use her fall as motivation and make her comeback.
“Every hardship in life is defined by how you react to it and I intend to use my fall as motivation for track season.” Black said. “Although the fall was unfortunate, I see it as a way to come back during track season even stronger.”
Not only was Black’s fall a motive for her, but so is the pride she possesses as a Royal.
“I take pride in HSE and being able to represent my school is a huge reason why I am motivated to achieve great things.” Black proclaims.
The stamina Black has obtained throughout her best cross country season will carry on through track. Her cross country teammates are excited to see the same determination help her accomplish more. One of her teammates, sophomore James Rathbun, supported her during state and is hoping to do so again.
“I believe that Lulu will come back from her xc situation with confidence knowing that she was yards short from being 6th in the state.” Rathbun said. “In track, I’m looking forward to see her run at state and become all-state in the 3200 (meter run).” Photo by Line 11 Photography
