Allyson Girard, who has been a top runner for the Hawks, is taking her talents back up north next fall.
Name: Allyson Girard
High School: Highland High School
Signed with: University of Minnesota Duluth
Well, I'm definitely excited about trying something new! Of course, it is going to be an extreme change but I feel like that's what going to Minnesota is all about for me. I will be surrounded by all things unfamiliar, so a change in training will only add to the excitement. I'm not a huge fan of the heat anyway. And when I went on my official visit I lasted like 3 miles on a run and it was only 9 degrees out, so I think I'm ready, right?
What is your favorite high school course and/or track? And why?
When it comes to cross country, my favorite course is Mt. Sac. Even though you feel like you're dying the whole time, you really have to push yourself and it feels like true cross country running. Also, it's not a golf course. When it comes to track, I really like Chandler Rotary and Hohokam. I also love running at MCC for the state meet. It's hard to say which my favorite for track is because it's all just running in circles.
What clinched your decision to go up north?
I've known since the beginning of my recruiting process that I wanted to run Division II and out of state. I also knew that I wouldn't mind a change in climate, a place with four seasons like Michigan where I was born. From there I honestly just looked into the top programs in the country that fit that criteria and when I met Coach Warmington from UMD and the team on my visit, I fell in love with it!
What goals do you have for your final season of high school track?
I have personal goals regarding time and placement that I will keep to myself, but my overall goal is to make the most out of my final high school track season. To put my all into every long run, track workout, and race. I will be satisfied with any improvement in any of my times at this point, because I never imagined they'd even be where they are now. All in all, I will consider my goals accomplished if I finish the season knowing that I worked my butt off every opportunity I was given and with my teammates by my side.