What began as an opportunity to engage and make new friendships has evolved into a profound pas-sion for running. Lauren Verslues, a senior track and cross-country athlete at Helias High School, began her track career in 5th grade and cross-country in 8th grade. Currently, she competes in the 4x400, 4x800, open 800, and 1600 events. “I love how rewarding run-ning is and how accomplished I feel afterward. There is nothing like the feeling after you just get a PR and finish a hard track workout with your teammates.” From an early age, Lauren has loved playing sports. “I love competing and getting to meet new people who I run against. I also love to grow and push myself to new limits I never thought possible.” What makes Lauren a great athlete is her mental resilience. “A lot of my suc-cess in running has come from being mentally strong even through the highs and the lows, including inju-ries.” Junior year, two weeks before districts and state, she suffered a hamstring injury. Despite the setback, 46 she rested as much as possible and still participated in the race. She took the winter off, but as track season approached, it still wasn’t healed. “Persisting through the injury made me both frustrated and confused. I was doing everything I could, and the results still weren’t happening. As time went on, I accepted the fact that God must be trying to show me something. In the end my injury taught me how to deal with tough situations through perseverance and staying strong mentally.” Before a big meet, Lauren talks herself through race strategies the night before. She reflects on how hard she has trained and how it has prepared her for this moment. “Positive self-talk is so important. If you be-lieve that you can achieve your goals, then you’re more likely to succeed. As more seasons and years go by, the more I realize not to take any season for granted. I think of all the gifts and talents God has given me and I don’t want to see any of that go to waste.” 521465.1%-'4/#)#<+0' JANUARY 2025
Sports Locker January/February 2025: Page 46
