Freshman Kaylyn Crompton has been named NAC rookie of the week and ECAC rookie of the week. Photo courtesy of Castletonsports.com

Q. First question is what is your major? And what are your plans after college?

A. My major is exercise science. My plans after college might be to get my master’s degree at UVM. I might become a nutritionist or physical therapist.

Q. That's awesome! Perhaps with a focus in sports?

A. Maybe! I'm not sure yet.

Q. Gotcha. Did you play or participate in any other sports in high school?

A. Yes I did Nordic skiing and track in high school and I want continue these sports in college.

Q. Great! How long have you been running Cross-Country?

A. Since 7th grade.

Q. Very nice! You obviously like it to have been running for so long! What is your favorite part about Cross-Country?

A. My teammates are the best part of cross-country. I love the mental and physical toughness as well that comes with running. Racing is also fun for me. I love the competitiveness of it. You should also mention my teammate Adi Toof, she is such a great person and friend.

Q. So it's safe to say you are a team player who is willing to push yourself to win?

A. Yes! Giving and receiving support from my teammates is such a good feeling. Running a personal best is also the greatest feeling in the world. You can really see that your training and hard work has paid off.

Q. How do you prepare yourself before a race? What goes through your mind as you're warming up?

A. I try to get as much rest as I can the night before a race so I can feel good and rested. I make sure that I have done a proper warm up and dynamics and striders. As the race gets closer to starting, I get more and more nervous, but once the gun goes off I feel okay. The only thing I am focused on is myself and where I am in relation to my competitors. I also make sure that I am properly hydrated and had enough to eat.

Q. Sounds like you have it down to a T because you have recently received individual success from the North Atlantic Conference named both runner and rookie of the week for three consecutive weeks! What does this accomplishment mean to you, especially as a freshman?

A. It means so much to me. I'm glad that I can be a big contribution to the team. I also had a super tough coach in high school, and if it wasn't for him, I wouldn't be half the runner I am today.

Q. Sounds like he saw something special in you and maximized your potential. Tell me what it's like to cross the finish line knowing that you came in first place?

A. It feels amazing to be the first one to cross the line. I am out there to run for a good place and time, and to also help my teammates and push them along as well. As a result, our whole team improves and our work ethic strengthens. I really feel like this has been the case this year. Some people have said that our team this year looks stronger and more connected than ever.

Q. That's great to hear! Is there a specific teammate you look up to?

A. I really like to watch long distance runners like Galen Rupp and I also love watching Usain Bolt!

Q. Great choices! Who is your role model and why?

A. My role model is probably my entire family. They are so supportive and encouraging and they are always looking out for me and want the best for me.

Q. Always great to hear someone who finds success to talk about how important their family is to them. What do you like to do in your free time?

A. In my free time I love to hang out with my friends and family and also spend time on my own just relaxing and listening to music. I also love camping!

Q. Camping is a great thing to do, especially in the state of Vermont! Ok, last one. What are your goals for the remainder of the season personally and as a team?

A. My goals for the rest of the season are to continue working hard and having fun both in school and cross-country! I'm really in love with Castleton and I want to make the most out of my time here!

Q. Glad you're enjoying Castleton and I wish you the best of luck! Thank you, Kaylyn!

A. Thank you for choosing to interview me! It means a lot! Good luck to you too with school and football!