Sammy Lerner, Needham High School
"Sammy started out her athletic career as a soccer player and in many ways, soccer helped form her into the runner she has become today. When I started coaching her as a freshman, her competitive fire is what stood out to me the most, that innate drive to push herself to her limits. But off the track, that intensity gave way to a wonderful sense of compassion and care for her teammates and competitors alike. Having captained the indoor and outdoor track teams at Needham, she has set the tone for excellence in and out of competition. We wish her good luck at Lehigh and beyond."
- Coach Van Cott
What do you enjoy doing outside of your running?
Outside of running I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.
What are you going to miss most about your high school running career?
Next year I will miss my teammates who were always there for me, supporting both my running and other parts of my life. I definitely consider those girls some of my best friends and I know I can count of them for anything.
What was your most memorable race?
My most memorable race was this year when I raced the 4 x 1 mile at the New Balance National meet with my teammates. We worked so hard to get there and it was an incredible experience to be in North Carolina with them.
Out of all your high school running accomplishments, what stands out the most?
The accomplish that stands out the most for me was when my team won the State Championship in cross country. It was my first year joining the cross country team and being a part of the winning team was so rewarding and something I will always remember and cherish.
What was the most difficult obstacle you had to overcome?
The most difficult obstacle I had to overcome was forgetting to look at the big picture and instead putting added pressure on myself for every race.
Do you have any advice for younger runners?
I would tell other runners to remember the big picture. I also think it is important to set all different kinds of goals but be patient with the results because they may not come right away.
If you were to change anything about your high school running career.....what would you change?
If I were to change something about my high school running career I would do more seasons of cross country.
What are your college plans?
Next year I will be attending Lehigh University where I will be on their cross country and track teams.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I would like to thank both my coaches, CVC and Cara O’Connell. Both of these coaches helped me discover my love for running and therefore changed my life. I couldn’t thank them enough for the endless support they gave me, on the course, the track, and in my life. I will miss them next year but will always have them to thank for everything they did for me during my four years of high school.