Athlete of The Week: Sydnee Over

Sydnee Over owns the sixth fastest time in the country at 400 meters and is part of two nationally-ranked relay track teams for the Warriors.

What is your attraction to basketball?: I really like the camaraderie among my teammates.  We all get along so well and I like the fact that it’s so different from track and field.

Would you ever consider giving basketball up to concentrate year-round on track?:  No.  I’ve already gave up playing AAU summer ball for track.  I feel like basketball is a great break, both mentally and physically; so until I go to college, I plan to continue playing basketball.

What is the most challenging aspect of running track and field?:  The individuality makes it challenging.  If you lose a baseball or football game, it’s a team loss.  However, if you lose a race, it’s all on you.  There’s nowhere to hide.

What is the sense of anticipation for competing in the Nationals in the relays?: Competing on a national stage is exhilarating.  You get this feeling that makes you feel like an elite professional athlete.  You cannot get that true adrenaline rush and excitement anywhere else, and that’s why the relay team has such a great sense of anticipation.

What are your favorite subjects in school and why?:  I really love English and Ceramics.  Actually, I enjoy reading and writing both essays and narrative pieces.  Ceramics class has a really calming and serene atmosphere and I love creating my own pieces of art.

What are your favorite activities when it’s time to chill out?: I always try to hang out with my friends as much as possible.  Since track takes up so much of my time, it can get hard to see them.  When we’re together we like to go shopping, to the movies, or just hang out and talk.

It might be too early to start thinking about college choices, but what career paths appeal to you?:  Ever since I was little, I’ve wanted to go into the medical field.  The four main career paths I’m looking at now are pediatric nursing, physician’s assistant, midwifery or physical therapy.

Who are your main role models and why?:  As a runner, I’ve always looked up to Allyson Felix and my mother.  I think how Felix was able to go the Olympics and win a silver medal at 18 years old is amazing.  Also, even though I still see my mom as a mom and not a former professional athlete, I know I wouldn’t have gotten anywhere athletically and generally without her.

Who is your favorite celebrity and why?:  I can’t really think of a favorite, but Beyonce is definitely up there.  She’s so beautiful and I love all her songs. I’ve also wished I could sing and dance like her!

What would be the one thing you would like to change about Windsor High School?: I would like to see all sports given the same level of recognition.