Samuel Wolde - Ephrata HS
What was your most memorable race/competition?
My most memorable race was at 6th Millersville High School Invitational. I ran the 3200m and it was one of my best track races I ever had. I remember coming through the mile and the coaches yelling my splits, my teammates cheering at each corner of the track, it was just amazing. I ended up running 20 seconds faster than my previous PR. The excitement on my coaches face was unforgettable. It always feels good seeing your coaches proud of you after the time and effort they put to make you a better athlete.
Where did you face your biggest competition?
I always had my biggest competition at the Lancaster Lebanon League Championships in both track and XC. The L-L League is one of the strongest leagues in the states, so I had the chance to compete against the top athletes in the District 3, even in the State.
Out of all your high school accomplishments, which stands out the most?
I am most proud of my senior year xc and track season. I was named Lancaster Lebanon League second team All-star in cross country and I got a medal at Foot Locker Northeast Regional Championships.
If you could do it all over again, what would you change about your athletic career in high school?
If I could do it all over again, I would have taken weight training and ab workouts more seriously because now I realize that upper body strength is key to success in distance running.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
I was very fortunate in high school with having very few and minor obstacles, I had a bad track season start my sophomore because of shin splints, but with the great help of the athletic trainers I was able to recover from that quickly.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the bus rides, team warm up drills, xc camp, xc meets, and most importantly, my coaches and teammates who helped me to become the athlete that I am today.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
I really want to encourage the young athletes to set a goal, work hard for to achieve your goals and be accountable for your goals. Cross Country athletes take summer training seriously. It all starts in June. I guarantee you it will pay off later. Always listen to your coach believe it or not your coach is always right. I know it's sounds kind of stupid but you just have to trust what he/she said and they will get you to the level of success that you want.
How have your coaches influenced your performances and your life goals overall?
My coaches at Ephrata were very open minded, good listeners, caring and hard workers. They are always helping you to achieve your goals, to be successful in your education and become a better person, which is a great quality to have in a coach and a mentor.
What are your college plans?
I will be running for Kutztown University this fall majoring in Computer Science.
Shout-Outs?
Shout out to coach DelPiano, Hershberger, John and Greg Keller, these coaches have helped me to be a better athlete.
Running buddies, Tyler Sensenig, Billy Hauser, Carl Rowits and so many others thanks for standing by my side and help me get through tough times. Shout out to my family, especially to my mom for encouraging me to do my best in everything I do. I would like to say good luck to senior team members and fellow senior captains Eric Trella, Max Schrom and, Alex Nguyen (my roommate). Last but not least, the underclassmen you guys have a long way to go, keep working hard!!
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