Cross country leader Allison reflects on career

HUNTLEY — Huntley’s girls cross country team had one senior, Ava Allison, as the Red Raiders won the IHSA Class 2A Hampshire Regional championship Oct. 21. The team is ready for the sectional meet at Lake Park Oct. 28.

Allison contributed a sixth place finish at regional. She recently answered questions about her cross country career.

Describe your initial years of cross country.

Allison: “I loved cross country when I started and I still love it. I joined cross country because my mom used to sign me up for fun obstacle course races when I was younger. She coached girls cross country in middle school. She eventually signed me up for cross country in middle school and I have been doing it since.”

Who has helped you the most at middle school or high school?

Allison: “My parents are my main source of support and have helped me throughout my running career. They are always supportive and help me through everything and I am very thankful for that.”

What sports other than cross country have you participated?

Allison: “In middle school I used to play basketball but I stopped to focus on running.”

Describe your off-season training.

Allison: “During the summer we work every morning and just get our legs moving through some miles. We run some tempos and speed. During the winter months we focus on a lot of speed work and strength as well.”

Which season moment or achievement is your favorite memory thus far?

Allison: “My favorite memory from my entire cross country running career would be winning the 2022 sectional championship. It was a great moment and it felt good. My favorite achievement this year would be breaking 19 minutes.”

Describe how you show leadership to the team a senior.

Allison: “Being one of the oldest on a team full of younger athletes I have learned to become a leader. I have set up team bonding events and I am always a support for everyone. I am able to set a good example and lead everyone.”

Any college plans to continue running and planned major and career goals?

Allison: “I have not decided on a college but I know I am going to college. I plan on studying psychology/health science. After high school I would really like to get into a good internship in college and eventually own my own practice.”