Name: Isa Hitchens
Year: senior
Hometown: Hinsdale
What's it's like competing in your final track season?
It's pretty crazy to think about. It seems like yesterday was my first track practice.
What events do you compete in?
I run the 400, 200 and 100 meters. This season I'm really focused on the 4x400-meter relay and the 400-meter solo, because I think that's what I have the most potential in and I have the most fun in.
What's your goal for the season?
To win a state title in the relay.
Have you matured as an high school athlete?
When I began track as a sophomore, I was more focused on running solo events and my own times. Now I focus on excelling for the team. The PRs (personal records) will come with your training. I want my entire team to be a part of the success. Without the team you don't have people around and an environment to push you so everyone can share that success.
How do you serve as a team leader?
I really try to get all the kids involved in the practices and make sure to keep everyone motivated and working toward the goal of improving themselves.
How you prepare for a meet?
I make sure a few hours before to eat some eggs and get some carbs in. I also have an energy drink and listen to songs that hype me up on my headphones during my warm-up.
What do you to relax?
I love going to the gym and doing power lifting stuff. I just like to see that progress and improvement. I also like to play video games or read a book.
Do you have siblings?
I have eight siblings. I'm the third oldest. It's a pretty hectic and chaotic household.
What's next?
I'm taking a gap year to figure out what I want to do. I plan on training and improving my track performance in hopes of earning a scholarship to college.
Why does coach Jim Westphal like having Hitchens on the squad?
Isa has been a tremendous asset to our program. An outstanding student-athlete, great teammate and one of the most coachable athletes we've even had the pleasure to work with.
- profile by Ken Knutson, photo by Jim Slonoff
