There is a quote by Sting that I think best fits what being on cross-country means to me. It says, “Maybe all it takes is just one person to believe in what you are doing to give you the confidence to keep trying.” For the past four years of running on the cross-country team, of gaining new friends, running countless practices, and experiencing all the ups and downs every season has brought, I know I will leave the sport with confidence in myself. Running has been more to me than just seeing how fast I can run, or who I can beat. It has been a chance for me to prove to myself what I am capable of doing when I give it my all. It is from the belief of my teammates and my coaches, that I have learned to believe in myself. My teammates are more than just my teammates, they have become my best friends. Coach Meiser is not just my coach, but someone I look up to as a role model. My team has become like family to me. Cross-country has been my security blanket while trying to survive high school. And as sad as it will be to leave my team after this season, I know that I have gained more than I could have ever asked for. I will be leaving cross-country with friendships that will last a lifetime, lessons I could have only learned through the trials I have experienced, and most important, the timeless memories. It is hard to let go of something you are so use to, something you love so much. For cross-country has meant so much more than just running to me. It has meant discovering the confidence within me, and learning to believe in myself.