Markus Ballengee '16 Recruiting Profile

  I set new goals everyday, it challenges me, but my three main goals that aren't a new everyday thing are very simple, yet have a big impact. My first goal and probably the most important, "Is to become not only the best athlete that i possibly can be, but the best person i can be". This applies on and off the track, in the classroom, and outside of school. I think everyday, what can i do to improve my character, ability, and charitable acts? 

  The second goal of my list of long term goals is, "LEARN...LEARN...LEARN"! There is so many valuable things i can take not only from college itself, but from friends, family, teammates, and coaches. I know that coaches, teachers, and family members have that experience that i haven't acquired yet. Im willing to listen at anytime, just hoping i can learn something im yet to learn. 

  Lastly, "Be inspiring"! When i accomplish things whether its in sports or just activities i do it in an attempt to drive and push someone else to do the same or do better. I want to become great in the sport of Track & Field to inspire people, make them want to do what im doing or see me and think " That really impresses me and drives me, i think ill go do a marathon, or a 5k race, or start going to the gym." Health goes hand and hand with inspiring, when you inspire someone in sports its usually pushes them to get to that peak of healthiness and well-being, and i just love that. 

  I do several events when it comes to track. I chose to do that not only to keep me busy, but also to help out the team as a whole. In the state of Virginia we are allowed to do every field event and three running events unless you run the two mile, then you can only do 1 more running event. Since it is allowed i do six to seven events every meet, every meet i usually bring in half or over half of the teams total points. This allows us to excel even as a smaller team. Im not only focused on my goals im also focused on the goals of the team and the players. That's why i believe im a great candidate for a collegiate track team. 

  Although im not at the top of my class, number one in every event, and don't have perfect character, i have dedication and motivation like no other. If im doing anything, whether its taking out the trash, working on work at school, or lifting in strength & conditioning class, im the one trying and doing my best to finish as quick as i can, do it the best as i can, and give it my all. Ill train for a year straight to get were im supposed to be physically, ill go study for a test even if i don't want to and know i still might not get the best grade. I'm there, doing what i need to do, striving and pushing to better myself. 

  Im not the best, im not the worst, im me. Im Markus Ballengee, and i try my best in everything i do. I will always try my best in everything i do, and i will suceed. You will see!