Olivia Toole

It is still early on in the cross-country running season, but Lake Region varsity coach Dan Dors sees something special in freshman Olivia Toole.

“Olivia is not only going to be a good runner, but she is also a good person of fine character that you would want to build a team around,” Coach Dors said. “Always at practice, a very good work ethic. Very quiet but, goes out and does what she is told to do. A little more experience and she will develop into an excellent runner. Olivia is a solid, dependable, good team member. A real pleasure to coach. She is a true student-athlete, an honor for me to nominate Olivia for Player of the Week.”

In recognition of her strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Olivia is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed T-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

The Toole File

Name: Olivia Toole

Year in School: Freshman

Hometown: Naples

Parents: Vicki and Jeff Toole

Sports you play: Cross-country

School organizations: Band

Why did you choose to play this sport?

OT. I had encouragement from my amazing fiends and it looked like lots of fun!

What is the most difficult part of the game?

OT. Running for three miles straight while trying to make our team and supporters proud is very challenging at times. But in the end, it’s worth it!

What do you enjoy the most about the sport?

OT. I enjoy that it is an individual race, but it also has a team score in the end and you still had the feel of a supportive team.

What do you feel you need to work on and why?

OT. I think I can always improve as a runner, and with more practice, hopefully I will get faster!

Why is teamwork important?

OT. Having a great team is like a foundation for your time as an athlete. Working together toward a common goal is really awesome and it brings people together.

What is the biggest impact your coach(es) have had on you?

OT. Coach Dors and Coach Peterson have taught me that good performance is all in your head, and that you shouldn’t pray for success, you train for it!

How do you want people to view you as an athlete?

OT. I want people to see that I give 100% effort with my running, and that I have great respect for my fellow runners.

Ten years from now, when you look back on your high school sports career, what do you think you will remember most?

OT. I think I will remember my great teammates and all of the hours of hard work that we all put in each week!