Freshman Savannah Seidel is in her first year at Fauquier High School (FHS), but she’s not new to cross country. In fact, she’s been running since sixth grade. What started as something she didn’t even think she would enjoy, has now become one of the most important and passionate parts of her life.

Seidel explained that it was actually her brother [Zach Seidel], who first encouraged her to give running a try. “My brother did track and field and cross country in sixth grade, and I hated running but I [said to myself], ‘Why not?’” Even though she didn’t enjoy it at first, Seidel stuck with it and, eventually, it paid off.

Today, Seidel runs on the varsity team at FHS, where she says the team environment is what she enjoys most. “The team is…a family,” she said. The support between teammates is what makes the sport special. Whether they’re running together or cooling down after a tough race, she feels like everyone is there for each other.

The coaches play a big role too, Seidel notes that her coaches motivate every runner, not just the fastest ones. “They work on everyone … even the people who aren't very good,” Seidel stated. She believes this team helps every athlete push themselves.

During races, Seidel says that what keeps her going is thinking about her teammates. “I usually run with one of my friends, and we always motivate each other,” Seidel mentioned. She tried to focus on staying positive especially when the race gets hard.

Savannah also shared one of her memories from this season. “I had a really bad race once, and my whole team comforted me after,” she said. They gave me hugs and were there for me.” Moments like that, she says, show how strong the team bond really is.

Throughout the season, she says she learned the importance of working together and giving your best effort.“ Just stick with it. Everyone hates it at first, but once you get to the end, it’s so much fun,” she explained. For Seidel, cross country isn’t just a sport. It’s a place where she grew and improved.