George Roberts ‘20: who ran track at NEST+m

1. Have you had an opportunity to "coach" newer players, and if so, how do you motivate/teach them?

Yes, I’ve gotten the opportunity to coach new runners during practices. When we had practice at East River, we would use the track and I would teach them how to start. In terms of actual running, depending on what they run if they are sprinters, I explained how to pace themselves during multiple points during the race and to always maintain their form. I also got the opportunity to run with some newer runners and I broke the ice for them by running first in some relay races. 

2.  Do you have aspirations to continue playing in college? 

I decided to make the decision to focus my studies at Binghamton University. However, I do have interest in intramural track, so if it proves to be a viable option for me I will pursue it.

3. What skills have you learned from track that you may have not learned otherwise?  

Skills I have learned from track that I may have not learned otherwise are that you should keep pushing. This is stressed in track especially on those days where the workouts are hard. This can be compared to your harder days. Just like track, you have to keep going because what you put in is what you get out. This is another lesson I’ve learned. Practicing for a big race is just like studying for a big test. The harder you work, the better the result. 

4. Describe your greatest track "achievement" (from this season or in general) and how it felt.  

My greatest track achievement would be making it to finals at borough champions twice. My first time was sophomore year. My second time was senior year, after a season of struggle. Sophomore year my team was surprised to have made it to the finals. This year, I decided to go out on a good note and our team placed 4th at Borough Championships.

5. Describe your "lowest" track moment (from this season or in general) and how you overcame it.  

My lowest track moment was my first race at the Armory. Sophomore year I ran the 300m and I felt so out of breath before the race finished. I didn’t want to just give up, so I pushed myself both in practice and practices on my own. I went not only to the gym but to outdoor tracks as well. Junior year showed the results of the training and my time decreased by 10 seconds.