Student Spotlight: Alyssa Dobbs

Junior Alyssa Dobbs is on the Varsity Track Team, she has worked really hard and hopefully will make it to State.

What did you do to prepare in the off season?

During the off season, I ran basically every day of the week, did a lot more cross training than I have previously, and did a lot more speed based workouts on the treadmill when the weather was not permitting. Also, I set goals for myself in the beginning of my “off season” after cross country ended. I ran Foot Locker Regionals at the end of November, ran a marathon on Christmas Eve, set mileage goals for January and February, and overall refueled my body much better than I ever have before.

How is your season going so far?

My season is going pretty well so far! I have been PRing in every race as the meets continue. I recently PRed at Burlington in the 3200 with a 12:12 and medaled against some pretty tough competition. I have been running strong in the relays Binne puts me in, and I PRed in the mile earlier in the season. The 3200 is my primary event, though, so I will be focusing on that most likely from here on out.

What do you enjoy most about track?

I like track because I can run with other people in practice, which motivates me on the days that I feel less inclined to run, but also because I get to race. Although racing beats up your body and is painful most of the time, I love the feeling of finishing knowing I did my best. Track is fun because the team really gets into the meets and I always feel supported. Plus, Binne has become somebody I really look up to and having his encouragement as I run through the season is special to me. He understands running, so I always feel understood when he is giving me advice. He also knows how to boost my confidence and get me to race more aggressively. I know he believes in me, which makes me believe in myself way more than I used to.

What is your goal for the end of the season?

My goal this season is obviously to make State in the 3200, but if I don’t, I want to be able to say I left everything out there. The competition looks tough, but I have the endurance. I just need to find that next gear and execute. In terms of time, I want to break 12 minutes in the 3200.