Freshman Maddy Krueger recently placed 5th overall at the state cross country meet representing Minneapolis High School. Only in her second season as a competitor, Krueger said her trip to state and the meet was a great experience.

“It was awesome! The atmosphere was crazy and even with COVID-19, there were still so many people there to support. I was really nervous, but once I started running, it felt good and the nerves went away. It is an experience of a lifetime,” said Krueger. “I will definitely continue to run cross country! It is by far my favorite sport.”

The freshman also plays basketball and runs track for Minneapolis. As a student-athlete, Krueger said she has enjoyed being with all of her teammates this season.

“My team is not very big, and we didn’t have a full girls’ team the entire season. But our team is really close; it doesn’t matter what age you are. It is like one big happy family. Coach Giles and coach Marsh are so supportive and encouraging. They only want the best for us and will do anything to help us. Alayna Cossaart is a great leader for me and running each race side by side with her helped me to keep pushing. We pushed each other. But overall, my team was so supportive, and I have so many great memories; I can’t wait to make more.”