We ran a 6K in temperatures below 30 degrees Fahrenheit with wind, rain, snow, and hail. Needless to say
Meet the Bishops: Get to know a little about Erica VanHoose of the Ohio Wesleyan women's cross country team
Class Year: 2020
Major: Exercise Science
Minor: Zoology
How/Why did you choose Ohio Wesleyan?
I wanted to find a school that allowed me to live at home, commute, and be a member on the track and cross country teams. Originally, I was just looking to run track. However, the coaches said that cross country would be beneficial for my distance races so I gave it a try and now I love it!
How/Why did you choose your major?
I was undecided until my sophomore year of college. I had tried out some other courses that I thought I was interested in and discovered that it just wasn't the right fit for me. I also tried out some HHK courses and became really interested when I realized I was able to apply what I was learning to my running so I could become a better student-athlete. After that, I decided that exercise science was going to be the best option because I love working out, encouraging others to work out, and helping others reach their goals, too. This major covers my main interest and still allows me to get basic information in other areas of HHK as well.
What are your strengths as an athlete?
Some of my strengths as an athlete include, self-discipline, commitment, perseverance, dedication, hard work, pushing myself to reach my goals, and loyalty. I tend to hold myself to high standards because I know I am capable of reaching goals that may seem difficult at first. Most importantly, I always keep a positive attitude and stay focused whether it be at a meet or practice.
What is your favorite memory on an Ohio Wesleyan team?
I have two. The first is from my sophomore year conference meet when the conference meet provided the coldest temperatures we'd seen that year. We ran a 6K in temperatures below 30 degrees Fahrenheit with wind, rain, snow, and hail. Needless to say, it was freezing running in our uniforms which consisted of shorts and our tank top jersey. I didn't let it bother me and kept my mind on my goal. Each mile I pushed myself a little harder and when I came around that final turn I gave whatever I had left so that I would pass other runners but no one would pass me. As a result, I finished in the top 21 places and earned all-conference honors for the first time in college cross country. My other favorite memory is from the regional meet freshman year. I was the alternate runner for the race and warmed up with the team in case I was needed. I had turned in all my race bibs and hip numbers (it was required). Then, seconds before the race started coach said I would now be running. I was excited and ready to run! I will never forget those few seconds I had to get what I needed to race, hit the line, and run. I even ran faster than I thought I was expected to run that day.
Is there a specific coach or teammate who has helped you get where you are?
Each year I notice it more and more but Coach Ben Carlson and Coach Kris Boey have not only helped me through practice but especially during a race when you need a quick reminder that you just need to trust yourself. Sometimes I find their small comments during meets are what remind me to stay focused during my events. Also, praying before each race with some of my teammates has helped me relax and encouraged me to run harder.
What food could you not live without on race day?
Well, it depends. If we are talking about before a race it would probably be goldfish, grapes, and strawberries.
If you could visit another time period, when would it be and why?
I think I would be interesting to go back to when Jesus walked the Earth so I could see all the wonderful miracles he performed.
by Erin Ross '20
