Name: Morgan Summey
Hobbies: Painting, hiking, and running (of course)
Academic interest: Orthodontist
Personal bests: 18:11 - 5K
5:21 - 1600
11:31 - 3200
What does it mean to be named to the Shrine Bowl Run team and helping the hospital?
It means the world. I love being involved in the community and helping in any way possible. Knowing that my hard work this year qualified me for this makes me feel like it all paid off and I can't wait to visit the hospital!
What did you hear about the Shrine Bowl Run before this year?
All good things. Emma DeRoberts told me how exciting and fun it was when she ran last year. She said it was one of her favorite memories and I look forward to it.
What do you hope to experience during The Run?
I hope to show people how amazing the running community is. Not only do we focus on our sport but we are always involved in our community. Whether it's canned food drives, supporting our fellow runners, or visiting the Shriners Hospital, we are always looking out for everyone.
How are you preparing to run with a football?
The same as I always do. Eating a lot of M&Ms. They say sugar highs are the best way to run so, of course, it's my go to! Coach Hickman, I'm running low!
How would you rate your senior season?
My senior season has been the best out of all my seasons. I've made so many relationships and even got my best time in the 5K. On a scale 1-10, I would rate it an 11. I'm so sad I have to leave it all next year!
What future goals do you have?
I hope to finally reach my goal of breaking 18 at College of Charleston next year. I'm looking forward to the next four years and all the memories to come. GO COUGARS!
Have you made the decision to compete at the next level? Please explain.
Yes, I have! I signed with College of Charleston as a distance runner for cross country and track.
How did you get involved with the sport and when?
Well, it's a funny story actually. In middle school, the swim team got shut down and I needed a new sport. My best friend, Brooke, told me track practice was starting up and I decided to join because why not? I showed up and immediately went to the coach. The first thing I said, "I'm Morgan and I'm here for pole vaulting!" The coach took one look at me and said: "Well we don't have a pole vaulting team." So that's how I got into running. Believe it or not, I was a sprinter at first and if any of you have looked at Milesplit, I am not meant for that. So somehow I ended up running the mile and distance was the place for me!
Do you have any relation or know someone that has attended the Shriners Hospital?
Louden Craig (watch video), our inspiration for the team, had many procedures there for cerebral palsy.
How have you seen the sport change in the state? Please explain.
It has changed significantly especially in 2A! Our region is so close and full of so many friendships. I don't think you can find that anywhere else. Everyone is super close and supports one another as if we were on the same team. It's so encouraging and I hope that even after this year it continues into the other regions.
What was your motivation for your final XC season?
I wanted to give it my all I had for my senior year. Knowing this was my last time at every race really motivated me to work hard and "show up and show out" as Coach Smith says. He truly was an inspiration to me this year and always is my number one motivator. At every race, he's there to cheer me on and I wanted this to be our best season yet!
If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why?
I would honestly take Coach Smith, Coach Wyatt, Coach Hickman, and John Olson with me to college. They have always been there for me and I have no idea what I will do without them next year. My meets are always filled with so much joy because of them and any time I am nervous, they know exactly what to say.