Meet Rebecca Stover
9/17/2014 12:00:00 AM | Track & Field, Cross Country
How did you begin running distance?
“When I was in seventh grade, a friend of mine from my competitive soccer team suggested I run cross country with her to stay in shape for soccer. After a lot of convincing, I decided to try it. I ended up winning every race that season. From then on, I decided to pursue the sport more seriously. I continued running cross country through high school, and now here I am.”
What inspired you to come to The University of Alabama?
“My goal was always to compete for a Southeastern Conference school. Aside from the level of competition Alabama offered, the coaches, team, and school atmosphere were exactly what I was looking for. Another special part about The University of Alabama was the opportunity to be a part of the class that rebuilt the track and field and cross country programs alongside the new coaching staff that was hired in 2011.”
What is the biggest difference between last year and this year?
“The numbers on our distance team have grown, which makes for a more competitive environment. However, even with this change, the tight-knit family atmosphere is still very present.”
Are there any ways you mentor the freshmen who joined the team this year?
“I try to share anything I have learned the past two years that I feel is valuable advice or information. Also, I want to make every new member feel comfortable and at home on our team. After all, we're all ‘family’. Coach (Dan) Waters always tells us to take care of each other, and I try to do just that.”
What goals do you have for this year?
“My main goal is the same as the other girls on the team and that is to make it to nationals. We were so close last year and it makes us even more determined this year. Other than that, I want to come back from the surgery I had in the spring and be a vital part of our very talented team this year.”
What is your biggest accomplishment on the track or the course you've had thus far in your career?
“Scoring as a freshman in the SEC Outdoor Track and Field Championship 3,000-meter steeplechase while breaking the school record was a very special moment for me. I hope to have more accomplishments similar to that one throughout my last two years here at UA.”
If you could try any event besides distance, what track event would it be?
“I would like to try pole vault. I have always loved watching pole vault competitions, and I respect the amount of focus and concentration it takes to be successful.”
How many times have you received a funny look when you tell people you are a distance runner, and how do you respond?
“I lost count a long time ago. Sometimes during hard workouts, long runs, or summer training, we catch ourselves asking the same question people ask us - "Why did we pick this sport out of all the others?". The truth is that it can be excruciating at times, but it has a lot more to offer than people think. It has taught me discipline, mental toughness and resilience. I have also learned to trust my coaches and training, to be open to change, and to always set goals and have a vision. Not only does running keep people in shape, but it is extremely effective in clearing your mind and relieving stress. Distance running is a lifelong activity that will not end after college like most sports. It has given me best friends, memories and experiences that will stay with me forever, and I am extremely grateful to be a part of such an awesome sport.”
What is a piece of advice you would give young runners?
“My advice for younger runners would be to get involved in other sports or activities whenever you're able to. Distance running can get repetitive and overwhelming at times, so it is nice to be a part of another physical activity to avoid burning out on running. I personally experienced this by playing soccer growing up, and I am confident that I wouldn't be where I am today if I wasn't a part of it.”
