For the third time in her high school career, senior Maggie Sebest is heading to state for cross country, representing the Poland Bulldogs. She will be traveling to Columbus, Ohio on Friday, November 3, and then the meet will take place the following day.

Once she discovered that she was heading to state, she was ecstatic, and her family was super excited for her. The only downside is that the girls’ cross-country team can’t go to support her.

When asked how she got to where she is to today, she explained that you have to be very dedicated and spend lots of time running. Being on the soccer team also helped condition her.

The key to Sebest’s success was her resilience; she had to learn how to overcome the days felt tired so she could concentrate on succeeding.

“I’m a very competitive person. I want to be on top and do my best,” Sebest tells when asked what inspires her to do so well. “I like to win.”

What she likes about cross-country is that so many people come together.

“There’s no one type of runner,” she said, regarding the diversity that presents itself in the sport.

For those who wish that they were in her position, Sebest made sure to give some advice. She encourages her fellow teammates to work hard, believe in themselves, stay positive, and use every resource that they can get.

Good luck, Maggie!