When Addison Parra steps onto the course, whether in practice or a meet, she knows she and her team are working towards the same end game - the finish line. And at the most recent meet, Parra and her team stepped into the spotlight.
The Sinton girls took home the team championship at the on Saturday, Aug. 15 at the Kenedy Invitational XC26 at Gulley Park. Pacing the way for the Lady Pirates was Parra, a senior who won the two-mile varsity race in 14 minutes, 0.63 seconds.
And while the end result was the best possible, head coach Josephine Guzman said the work for the team - and most notably Parra - goes beyond the meet day.
She said the team works as hard as any she’s coached, and that Parra sets the tone with her work ethic - one that is the perfect example for the rest of the program.
“They understand that success comes from consistency, discipline, and being willing to work toward their goals even when it’s difficult. What makes this team so special is the way they push one another, support one another, and continue to believe in what they are capable of accomplishing. Addison is a wonderful representation of that mindset,” Guzman said. “She is dedicated, coachable, and willing to put in the work, and I am incredibly proud to have her represent our team. These kids continue to remind me why I love coaching, and I truly believe their best days are still ahead of them.”
GET TO KNOW ADDISON
1. What do you enjoy most about cross country?
What I enjoy most about cross-country is the environment of everybody putting in hard work. It makes me feel like we're all in it together, and we're all working towards the same goals.
2. What will be the key to you and your team's success this season?
The key to me and my teammates' success will be consistency in practice and willingness to give it all, even if it's running a grassland or a tall hill.
3. What is something about you that most people don't know?
Something most people don't know about me is that I have a pet hedgehog. I got her on my 17th birthday. She is truly my best friend.
4. What or who motivates you to do your best?
The main thing that motivates me is myself. I want to get better each day and see progression. I want to be better for me and my team.