Photo by Traci Whorton
By Angela Brunk
As a senior on the McPherson High School cross country team, Reesa Whorton has taken on her final season with determination, consistency, and a positive mindset. After an injury-plagued junior year, Whorton returned focused on dropping her time by at least a minute while listening to her body and staying healthy, goals she’s worked steadily toward all season.
Whorton’s goals haven’t just been individual. Alongside her teammates, she’s been chasing the possibility of a trip to state, a feat the girls’ team achieved last season, while building team chemistry and maintaining a positive mindset.
One of her favorite parts of the season is time with teammates. “This season I am looking forward to getting to know new teammates,” she shared. “And also, the team dinners we have throughout the season.” Whorton has enjoyed being a senior this year and all the things that come with it.
Preparation for this season began well before the start of the school year. Thanks to Coach Rempe’s summer running program, Whorton and her teammates met multiple times each week to train and bond. “It’s nice to have people to run with throughout the summer instead of just running on your own,” she said.
Outside of cross country, Whorton is a multi-talented student involved in track, choir, and piano. She’s also a member of STUCO, National Honor Society, and Tri-M, showing her dedication extends beyond athletics.
Looking ahead, Whorton knows college is in her future, though she’s still deciding whether running will be part of that journey. No matter what, her senior season is proof of resilience, leadership, and love for the sport.
