By Matt Browning
Sierra Gropp of Concordia was chosen as the American Family Insurance Athlete of the Month for June. Gropp runs the 100-meter and 200-meter for the Panthers’ track and field team.
Gropp has taken second place twice in each the 100 and 200 this season.
“I am pretty satisfied with how my season has been so far,” Gropp said. “Something I would like to improve before the season comes to an end is my 200m time.”
Gropp started running track in eighth grade and she knew she had a chance to be good.
“I pretty much just fell in love with the sport from the beginning,” Gropp said. “I had competed in gymnastics for many years beforehand so I was pretty athletic to begin with which helped me out a bunch.”
It is easy for Gropp to stay in shape throughout the year, as she is involved in multiple activities.
“In the summer, I participate in the weights program offered by the high school,” Gropp said. “I also coach gymnastics which gives me the opportunity to work out with the gymnasts. Throughout the fall and winter seasons, I stay in shape by cheering.”
Gropp is going to cheer at Cloud County Community College next year and plans to later transfer to Kansas State, where she wants to major in Kinesiology.
