Rebecca Johnson '20 Recruiting Profile

I strongly believe that our past defines the present.  When I was younger I used to love racing my classmates, boys and girls, on the playground during recess. Even though I would often lose, I learned to appreciate running for the joy of running rather than the thrill of winning, but my competitive nature still gave me the desire to win. This led to the development of the work ethic that still defines me today.

I have been running hurdles since seventh grade. After I won my very first meet in tennis shoes, I started to take a serious investment in the sport. I joined a summer track team:  the TYSA Texans, now Saginaw Elite, to further my training. I remember the thrill I felt the first time I successfully cleared my first hurdle. That feeling of flying has kept me going through the rough times I have experienced. Despite the adversities I have faced, I have always reminded myself to get back on the horse and keep doing what I love. The sensation I get when I hurdle is why I run. That feeling is why I must keep running and I would be honored to continue to run in college while I complete my degree.