Zachary Burke '22 Recruiting Profile

I started running in high school during my sophomore cross country season, but I quickly received results. I ran a personal record in the 5 kilo meter race of 18:34 my sophomore year. At the time of this personal record, soccer still dominated my life, but after an unsuccessful soccer season in the spring of 2020 that was cut short due to COVID-19, my passion began to shift towards running. Beginning in late March of 2020, I worked hard every day before, during, and after my runs. I focused on the little things such as warming up and getting loose before a run, and afterwards, I would attack myrtle, core and stretching exercises. My hard work payed off, as I lowered my personal record in the 5 kilo meter to 15:57.91 my junior cross country season. As my passion for running built even further and success started to pour in, I decided to do track for the first time in the fall of 2021. I qualified for the state championship in two events (1600m and 3200m), and I ran in three events (1600m, 3200m, 4 x 800m). I ran impressive times throughout the season and contributed to my team winning the Track and Field State Championship despite inexperience and feet issues (caused by poor running shoes). Coming out of the track season and recovering from my injuries, I am more determined and motivated than I have ever been. Along with attacking my normal runs and workouts, I am improving my form and technique, and I cross train three times a week. I stress a hard work ethic in my life, and I set high goals and standards for myself, which will allow me to see improvements in the 5 kilo meter race comparable to my previous year's improvements. With these improvements along with my academic achievements, I would like to get into a prestigious college where I can study for my future career and fulfill my dream of competing in college.