Southside Christian’s Maddie Buddenberg talks Shrine Bowl Run, senior season

Southside Christian’s Maddie Buddenberg talks about coming to South Carolina, the sport and this weekend’s Shrine Bowl Run. 

Name: Maddie Buddenberg
Hobbies: Playing the flute, hanging out with my friends, marathon Netflix sessions
Academic interest: Math and science
Personal bests: 5K- 20:00, 1600-5:58, 3200-12:54

What does it mean to be named to the Shrine Bowl Run team and helping the hospital?
It is such a huge honor to be a part of the Shrine Bowl Run team and run for such a good cause.

What did you hear about the Shrine Bowl Run before this year? 
I am pretty new to the state so I did not know anything about the Shrine Bowl Run until now.

What do you hope to experience on Dec. 20?
I hope to enjoy running with some great seniors and have a new experience at the hospital.

How are you preparing to run with a football?
My football friends told me that my main goal is to protect the ball. I'll keep it close and hope I just won't drop it.

How would you rate your senior season? 
Out of 10 I would rate this season as a 9 because I reached times that I did not know I could get. My team also got 2nd in state and I am very proud!

What future goals do you have? 
I hope to become a nurse and have a family someday.

Have you made the decision to compete at the next level? Please explain. 
I am hoping to be able to compete at the collegiate level next year.

How did you get involved with the sport and when? 
I started halfway through the season last year. I was new to the school and wanted a way to meet friends, so my parents recommended that I join the cross country team. I am so happy I took their advice!

Do you have any relation or know someone that has attended the Shriners Hospital?
No, I do not.

How have you seen the sport change in the state? Please explain. 
I have not been in the state for too long, but I have seen cross country become much more competitive. Year-after-year our Southside Christian School team finishes with better times.

What was your motivation for your final XC season? 
My motivation for this last XC season was to not have any regrets.

If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why? 
I can't think of just one thing that I want to do but I would love to use my future career in nursing to serve and care for others and glorify God with my talents and skills.