Running cross country for two years has been a learning lesson for Muskogee High senior Alondra Coronado.

“I learned a lot about myself this year in cross country,” said Alondra. “Coach (Craig) Perry really pushed me to be better than I thought I could be. I got into cross country last year to build up my stamina and speed for soccer. I was really slow when I started out-it took me 15 minutes to run a mile and then when he told me we’re going to run three miles in a race I was kind of whoa. But with his guidance I slowly improved and finally got to the point where I actually enjoyed running. It became a way for me to de-stress from my problems and get a feeling of adrenaline that I couldn’t find anywhere else.”

As noted, Alondra also plays soccer which she started when she was in fifth grade and has played ever since including for the Roughers.

“I like the intensity of soccer and just how hard it is to actually score a goal. I also like the sisterhood of our team and how we’re there for each other and I’ve learned something from everyone. I’m kind of like the mom of the team and am there to listen to them as a senior leader and keep them encouraged and make them feel important.”

Now that the cross country season is over for Alondra, she has some bittersweet reflections on her two years in the program.

“Last year I really enjoyed the sportsmanship of our team and the work that coach Perry and coach (Angie) Hillmon did with me and that’s the main reason I came back this year. After every race this year I was just glad to have it done and not go through the misery again but now that it’s over I’m kind of sad that I won’t go through it again.”

One of Alondra’s highlights this year has been representing cross country in homecoming as shown by the picture (above).

In addition to her school studies, Alondra is currently finishing the Business Administration program at ICTC and will see where that can take her after graduation.