Nia Skedel is a senior on the cross country team at Minooka. She’s been running since 6th grade. This interview with Nook News has been edited for clarity and length. 

Q: What motivates you to run cross country?

A: My friends, and my family. I come from a big family of runners and just the aspect of running gets me very motivated for school.

Q: What are your expectations for the team?

A: For everyone to treat each other with kindness and respect and to push each other to be better people and runners.

Q: What’s hard about cross country?

A: Mentally trying to push past the pain and keep going.

Q: What’s something people don’t know about cross country?

A: How much dedication we truly have towards the sport, and we practice way more than people truly expect.

Q: What are your personal goals for cross country?

A: To get faster and push myself more than I ever have.

Q: What’s your favorite course?

A: Detweiller Park (in Peoria)

Q: What’s your favorite running shoe brand?

A: Saucony

Q: What’s your favorite pre-run meal?

A: Overnight oats 

Natalie Esparza-Sosa is a member of the girls cross country team.