By Cooper Chadwick
Coming off an injury last season, senior Laney Hooper is excited to compete again.
“After two months of not running, being back for the season means the world to me. I am so blessed to be able to compete and work harder than ever,” Hooper said.
Hooper runs the 400-meter dash, 800-meter run and the 4×400 and 4×800 relays for Valley Center.
This offseason looked different than usual for Hooper.
“I did everything I could to stay in shape. I swam almost every day as well as extensive weight training. Keeping my body moving was important to me, even if running wasn’t an option,” Hooper said.
After getting injured last season, Hooper now understands the importance of keeping her body healthy.
“After racing, it takes time to recover, and being able to recover quickly helps during a days-long track meet with multiple events, especially those in close proximity to each other like the 400 and 800 in most cases with only one race separating the two,” Hooper said. “During the offseason, I have taken recovery very seriously by doing extensive stretching, eating well, taking active rest days and listening to my body.”
Looking to leave a legacy of perseverance and leadership at Valley Center, Hooper is ready to start this season strong.
“For the past two years, I have been a part of our leadership council, which takes interviewees through a long process in order to be accepted,” Hooper said. “I take pride in my natural leadership and love being able to use it for good in my sport. I know I can be better, and I’ll do anything I can to take the steps needed to improve on the track and as a person.”
