Shrine Bowl Run interview: Noemi Gutierrez of Southside

Name: Noemi Gutierrez 
Hobbies: soccer, being outdoors, drawing, running
Academic interest: Business administration / Sports management 
Personal bests: 5K - 20:29

What does it mean to be named to the Shrine Bowl Run team and helping the hospital? 
It's really a great honor to be a part of the team and to be part of a good cause. 

What did you hear about the Shrine Bowl Run before this year? 
Well, honestly I didn't know much about Shrine Bowl until my coaches told me about it. I did research on my own and I'm glad to have the chance to experience this great opportunity. 

What do you hope to experience during the event? 
I hope to have a great time and meet other senior runners around the state area. 

How are you preparing to run with a football? 
I'm hoping to get some tips from the football coaches at my school on how to handle a football since I know them well and they probably don't want to see me carry it wrong!

How would you rate your senior season? 
I would rate my senior year 10/10 because it was best season I've ever had. This year my team accomplished so much together and to see my team grow in numbers was incredible. I am truly proud of all my teammates.  

What future goals do you have? 
Some of my future goals are to be successful in college and help my parents out with whatever they need. I also want to help out in the community and run marathons and 5K races in different places! 

Have you made the decision to compete at the next level? Please explain. 
Yes, I have decided to run for college (Spartanburg Methodist).  At first, college wasn't on my mind right after high school and although education is very important to me, I didn't think I had a chance. Now having the opportunity to run for college and get a degree has changed everything for me and also for my family. 

How did you get involved with the sport and when? 
I became involved with cross country my sophomore year. I joined because I wanted to get in shape for soccer season and one of my teachers, now my coach, convinced me to come out and run. During my junior year, I realized it wasn't just a sport but it was a hidden talent I had.  By my senior year, I enjoyed running and realized how much the sport has taught me in many different ways. 

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

How have you seen the sport change in the state? 
I personally haven't seen much change in the sport, but I'm excited that the sport is growing in interest in our state.

What was your motivation for your final XC season? 
My motivation for this season was to enjoy every last bit of it and to run as fast as I could to reach every goal I had. An important goal I set myself last year was to make it to State. Thankfully, I had the opportunity to go with both the girls' and boys' team!  Seeing my teammates work hard motivated me to do the same and place well at state.

If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why? 
If there was one thing I could do, it will be help out every child in need and help a lot of people that are going through hard times. I want to be a big support to anyone in need and give them the love and care that they need.

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