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Full Name: Megan Nicole Fulks Date of Birth: July 28, 1989 Academic Interest: Biology with an emphasis in Exercise Science and Sports Medicine. Event PR\'s: 400-60.0, 800-2:20 Brothers/Sisters: Brother-Jermaine Hobbies: Running, reading, outdoor activities, talking on the phone, and meeting people. |
fulks: I began running at the age of eight on a local track club (Classics) here in Columbia.
scrunners: Does or did anyone else in your family run?
fulks: My father ran at Eau Claire High School during the early-mid 70\'s. My brother also ran several years with Classics Track Club and two years of cross country at Spring Valley.
scrunners: If so, in relation to the above question, how has that influenced your running goals?
fulks: My genetic talent is influenced by my father and also to continue to do something I enjoy.
scrunners: What made you decide to come out for the team at Spring Valley?
fulks: I wanted to continue running on a competitive level and Spring Valley is in my attendance school zone.
scrunners: Based on your performances at the 2005 state track and field meet, what are you looking to achieve this season as it progresses?
fulks: I\'m looking to medal and PR in all of my events at State Meet.
scrunners: How did you feel before, during and after the 800 last season at the state meet?
fulks: Before my race I was nervous, because I was worrying about previous times of my competitors in the race. During the race, my nervousness was forgotten after the gun was fired. After the race, I was very pleased, because I set a PR and I was proud that I made it to this point.
scrunners: Explain how the race unfolded.
fulks: The race started off with a fast pace, so I had to go with the pack to avoid falling behind. I came through the first 400 confident and strong, but I felt my body becoming fatigue in the back stretch, so I just held on. In the middle of the second turn I had to give everything I had left. Then, I reached the finish line proud, but tired.
scrunners: What other events do you remember from the state meet over your years as a track and field athlete?
fulks: I remember setting the state record for the 4x800 meter relay in 2004, with me leading off.
scrunners: What event are you focusing on this year?
fulks: I\'m focusing on the 800 as an individual.
scrunners: How would you say your training has been going for yourself and your team?
fulks: My training is going good so far and the team is doing well also.
scrunners: What kind of other goals are you looking to achieve this season?
fulks: I\'m looking to achieve another State Championship this year with the team.
scrunners: What are you looking to achieve in track and field in the future?
fulks: In the future I would like to be State champion in the 800 and break records. After high school, I would like to run on a collegiate level and to be exposed to many prestigious meets. My ultimate goal is to compete in the Olympics.
scrunners: What is your favorite workout? Explain.
fulks: Repeat sprints, because I need to work on my speed.
scrunners: Does Spring Valley have any team rivals?
fulks: This year our biggest rival I would have to say is Spartanburg.
scrunners: How did this rival develop?
fulks: This rival developed, because of our previous State Title.
scrunners: Have you ever been injured? If so, what type of injury occurred and what did you do to recovery?
fulks: Yes, I have been injured. For the past two years I\'ve been suffering from hip injuries that is thought of from several medical specialists and elite coaches due to growth, lack of strength, and continual training. I would say that I think I am in a stage of recovery, because I haven\'t had many problems with the area this season. There is still minimal therapy being performed to help with the problem.
scrunners: How do you maintain focus and motivation during an injury period?
fulks: It is difficult to maintain focus and motivation, because I know that I still want to be successful, so I would have to work twice as hard and do extra to become better. It is frustrating when I am doing all the right things, and the results are not where I think they should be.
scrunners: What would you say is the most prestigious event you competed in and how would you say you did?
fulks: Nike Indoor/Outdoor Nationals are the most prestigious meets I have competed in, and I believe I did very well.
scrunners: What do you see happening with track and field in South Carolina in the future?
fulks: In the future, I see track and field growing, because it is becoming more known now, and we are producing more athletes to higher levels. Also, the inclusion of an indoor season.
scrunners: Have you ever thought about being a coach? If so, why and what level?
fulks: Yes, I have thought about coaching, because I love this sport and it would be great to help someone pursue their dreams and goals in the same sport I love. I would coach on the high school or collegiate level.
scrunners: How do you look at challenges that arise during track?
fulks: I try to overcome them one day at a time and not let it break my focus for the rest of the season. Also, believing in God and trusting that anything that he brings me to he will bring me through.
scrunners: When a race scenario changes, how do you adapt?
fulks: I make the best out of the situation.
scrunners: When has this occurred and what was the outcome?
fulks: In past meets, when other schools in our region would change certain legs on the 4x800 based on our (SV) legs. The outcome was we still won.
scrunners: Have you ever met a professional athlete?
fulks: Yes, I have met two professional track athletes.
scrunners: If so, who did you meet and what did you discuss with this person?
fulks: Monique Hennagan and Latasha Colander. Monique shared her injury stories with me, which have definitely inspired me. Latasha shared her accomplishments and knowledge of various meets she has competed in.
scrunners: Did this person give you any training advice?
fulks: Both of these exceptional athletes basically encouraged me to work hard, stay motivated and believe in myself to become a great athlete.
scrunners: What do you look for in a coach?
fulks: In a coach, I look for someone that\'s easy to get along with, someone who knows what they are doing, trustworthy, and willing to work with me to get the best out of me.
scrunners: What do you expect a coach to look for in you?
fulks: A coach should look for talent, potential, hardworker, honesty, and responsibility.
scrunners: Do you have a specific tradition, individually or team before a meet?
fulks: Before a meet, I strategize my events, then relax and listen to music in order to get in the zone. Also, I talk to my mother before every race.
scrunners: If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why?
fulks: I would like to live a peaceful, healthy, happy, and prosperous life. If these things are at my ultimate level then I can be the best at whatever I set my mind to.