Year: senior
Hometown: Hinsdale
When did you start running?
I started running in junior high. I did the track team. My family runs, so that's how I got involved in that.
What do you enjoy most about the sport?
I really like the team aspect of cross country, ho we all kind of rely on each other.
What is most difficult?
It's a long season, so probably keeping our focus and being ready to race every weekend.
How many days a week do your train?
Five. Every day it's a different amount of time.
How do you stay motivated?
I'm doing it with my teammates, so we all kind of keep each other motivated while we're training together.
Do you have any pre-meet rituals or routines?
I always eat peanut butter toast before my races and listen to music.
What words of wisdom have you gotten from a coach?
Something that Coach McCabe says that I like, during the postseason he says, 'The hay is in the barn.' All our hard work is already done and now it's time to compete.
What is your goal for the season?
To improve every race and just kind of work on getting the most out of my season. (Our team's goal is to) work on getting better and stronger each race.
What do you enjoy doing when you're not running?
I really like to cook - honestly, anything, different things throughout the week for dinner.
What advice would you give someone who wants to start distance running?
I think that it's super valuable. I feel like it's a good stress reliever after long days and you just kind of get to enjoy it with other people.
Why does coach Mark McCabe like having Watcke on the team?
Emma is one of the top cross country and track runners in the state and nation and is being recruited by many of the top programs in the country, yet she brings so much more to the table than her contributions on the field of play. She had quickly become a team leader, a true team player and such a good role model for her younger teammates. Emma is truly a pleasure to coach.
- profile by Pamela Lannom
