Meatheads is a chain of fast-casual burger restaurants throughout the Chicagoland area. Each month, it recognizes a student-athlete in the area surrounding each location for his or her accomplishments on and off the field.
1. How do you exemplify Meatheads’ values of determination, hustle and hard work?
I persevered through the entire season with ankle injuries and did it all to represent my school during competitions.
2. What were your greatest athletic and academic achievements over the last month?
My greatest athletic achievement was winning the all-around at conference and placing ninth in state on vault. My greatest academic achievement was improving in my most difficult class: honors physics.
3. Is there a teammate, coach, faculty or family member you’d credit most with your athletic and academic successes?
I would like to give credit to my coach, Mrs. Holmbeck, because she is the sweetest person I have ever met, but isn’t afraid to push me in practice and meets, as well as outside the gym. I would also give credit to my entire family — two sisters, Sami and Julie, and my parents, because they have all supported me in gymnastics and my academics from day one.
4. Where are you going to college, or where do you want to go? Do you plan on playing a sport there?
I think that I want to go to a large university in the Midwest, but I am currently undecided about playing a sport in college.
5. Who is your favorite athlete playing today, collegiate or professional?
My favorite athlete is Gabby Douglas because she is such an inspiration to everyone in any sport and shows that if you persevere you can do anything.
6. What’s on your iPod right now?
I listen to various types of music, but much of it is pop or country rock.
7. What’s the best movie or television show you’ve seen recently?
The best TV show I have seen recently is definitely One Tree Hill.
8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself working, hopefully as a sports therapist or a physical therapist.
9. What is your favorite motivational quote?
“Even if you fall on your face, you’re still moving forward.” – Victor Kiam
