"Kaleigh joined our track and field program in the spring of her freshman year after playing field hockey and basketball. She gradually came around to the idea of being a runner, joining the indoor team as a sophomore and cross country team as a junior. Through hard work and ever growing confidence, she ultimately cemented herself as one of the best in the state winning three individual divisional titles and one individual state title in track; and two team state championships in cross country. Always supportive and positive with her teammates, she leaves Needham High School as one of our finest student-athletes and will be greatly missed."
-Chris Van Cott
Needham High School
Girls Track and Field Head Coach
What do you enjoy doing outside of your running?
I enjoy skiing, going to the beach, and spending time with friends and family.
What are you going to miss most about your high school running career?
I am going to miss my teammates the most because of the way we push and encourage each other but we are also all such good friends.
What was your most memorable race?
The most memorable race I have run in high school was during my junior year at the Indoor Coaches Elite Meet when I broke three minutes in the 1000m, because I felt like it was a big breakthrough race for me.
Out of all your high school running accomplishments, what stands out the most?
The experience that stands out the most was when my DMR team won nationals. It was the happiest I have ever been after a race and the best part was that the experience was shared with my teammates Sarah Armstrong, Olivia Corkery, and Margie Cullen. I don't think the excitement will ever fade off between the four of us about that accomplishment.
What was the most difficult obstacle you had to overcome?
Being injured during cross country this fall, and having to cross train to get ready for the state meet. Physically it was a challenge, but also mentally not being able to race all season was hard.
Do you have any advice for younger runners?
Enjoy everything about high school track because it all flies by.
If you were to change anything about your high school running career.....what would you change?
I wish that I had more confidence in myself as a runner freshman and sophomore year.
What are your college plans?
I signed to run at Villanova University!
Who would you like to say thank you to?
My coach, Coach Van Cott for always being encouraging, and putting a lot of time and dedication into helping us succeed. Coach O'Connell for introducing me to cross country, as well as being very encouraging throughout the season. My teammates, especially Sarah and Margie for pushing me and helping me improve as a runner. Also, my parents for being so supportive to me these past years.