Name: Jeremy Ricks
Hobbies: Mountain Biking, skiing, skateboarding, chilling
Academic interest: Social studies education
Personal bests: 15:53 5K, 9:46.11 3200, 4:42.92 1600
What does it mean to be named to the Shrine Bowl Run team and helping the hospital?
It’s a real honor. I think it’s a really cool opportunity that cross country gets some recognition. I feel that often times it is overshadowed by sports like football, and this is a great way for the sport to be recognized and to help the children of the Shriners Hospital.
What did you hear about the Shrine Bowl Run before this year?
I’ve heard that it’s a lot of fun and that you get to meet some really cool runners from other schools.
What do you hope to experience on Dec. 20?
I want to experience what the Shrine Bowl is all about. I’ve been waiting four years for this, so I’m excited to get to finally experience it for myself!
How are you preparing to run with a football?
It’s actually not something I had really thought about until I saw this question and the letter. I guess what I might do is start or end with a mile of my runs the week prior with a ball.
How would you rate your senior season?
I would say a 9 out of 10. I was able to accomplish some things I have been dreaming about since I was a freshman, like running sub 16, and winning County and Region. I had a lot of fun with the team, and it was a good year for all of them too. We have a lot of young guns coming up!
What future goals do you have?
I want to graduate college and become a teacher and an XC and track coach. I really want to give kids the same chance I’ve had to run for a great program and hopefully we can win some state championships wherever that may be.
Have you made the decision to compete at the next level? Please explain.
I really want to go back to my hometown of Laramie, Wyoming to go to the University of Wyoming, and I haven’t officially decided whether or not I’m going to try to run there.
How did you get involved with the sport and when?
I first ran in sixth grade for Providence Christian School in Covington, Ga. when a couple of my friends did it. I really enjoyed it but didn’t run again until 8th grade when I was finally persuaded by my dad and the coaches to do track at my middle school here in South Carolina. Needless to say, I haven’t stopped running since.
Do you have any relation or know someone that has attended the Shriners Hospital?
I do not.
How have you seen the sport change in the state? Please explain.
I think it has become crazier every year. The state meet in particular has just gotten louder and louder every year and there’s more and more people painting up for it. It’s pretty cool getting to run with that kind of support from fans and coaches from all around the state.
What was your motivation for your final XC season?
I’ve always been good at self motivation, but I think it was my team that kept me motivated the most. Each and every team member was really encouraging and kept me going through all the workouts and races. When I was running, I felt like I was representing my school and cross country program to the best of my ability, and that is a real honor and that kept me going all season long.
If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why?
I would go helicopter skiing in British Columbia with my dad. He and I have talked about that all my life and to get to do that someday would be awesome!