Years ago, when he was in 7th grade, our Student Athlete of the Week says he never thought he'd be able manage running the distances required for high school cross country. Since that time, he's reached that level, surprising himself, gaining success and confidence, while also racking up very high marks in the classroom.
"It's a very open time for your mind because you're just out there in the woods at Mill Creek or just out in my neighborhood still." explained Alex While. "It's just a good time to think. I've had ideas for school papers and stuff in the middle of runs."
He's also had his fair share of success on the course. While is a four-year letterwinner for Austintown Fitch's cross-country team, a first-team all-league and all-District selection for the Falcons.
"Succeeding in cross-country is probably the most challenging thing that I do," stated While. "I just like the sense of accomplishment knowing how much I've improved and that my work is paying off.
In the classroom his efforts are also paying off. While is a National Merit Semifinalist and plans to attend Ohio State or Akron to study Mathematics, not to mention the fact that his 4.0 grade-point average has him line to be class valedictorian.
"I mean, there is a link of putting in enough time for both," While explained. "You have to sit learning the stuff from school and you have to be out there running. To become good at something, you have to actually be doing it."
For his success on the course and in the classroom, Austintown Fitch's Alex While is our Student Athlete of the Week.
