Showing no fear, and having a strong mind set is what keeps Alison Agbasoga on track to becoming a college athlete.

“Working when extremely exhausted is always difficult for me, but knowing I have a team I have to pull through for makes it easier,” Agbasoga said. “I know I have to make up ground against all odds.”

Agbasoga competes in the 100 meter dash, triple jump and the 1600 relay. The 1600 relay team advanced to state last year, surprising several teams around the state. This year the team hopes to make it to state again but medal this time.

“Knowing the team and I were so close to standing on the podium at state last year has encouraged me to work even more hard than I did the year before,“ Agbasoga said.

Two key things that Agbasoga does in training to be successful is keeping a stable mind and having the power to control her breathing. Having the team working with her every moment during practice also helps Agbasoga push through the work out.

“Even though at times we might dislike each other or not agree on something, we all consider one another as a small family,” Agbasoga said. “We will always be there to push each other even when we think we can’t do it.”

 Anytime Agbasoga and the team feel like they can’t accomplish something they always have their coach Kelly Thompson to keep them on the right pathway. Working toward making another trip to state is one of the most important goals for Agbasoga and her team, not going is not an option.

“I understand that the team and I are going to run into obstacles throughout the season, but being able to adjust to situations quickly is key,” Agbasoga said.

This season has already started out rough for Agbasoga and her team, with the temporary loss of Justine Franklin due to a leg injury.

“Although we lost a team member this doesn’t give us the excuse to give up,” Agbasoga said.  “The only thing that will keep us from going to state this year is slacking in our workouts, and not giving 110 percent every practice.”

Going to state isn’t just any goal for Agbasoga, it determines a lot for her. She hopes to be able to compete well and run track in college. “Becoming more serious about running this year, as well as having a more mentally focused mind set has helped me stay on the right path to success this year,” Agbasoga said. “I have grown so much these past few years in track and hope to grown even more as I continue staying active in running.”

Agbasoga and the girls track team compete at the district meet Wednesday and Thursday, April 11-12.