Harrison Holland

hile most people spend their Saturday recovering from football games or hanging out with friends, freshman Harrison Hollon spends his time running over harsh terrain for the Hoover cross country team. Whether rain or shine, this is something he enjoys doing.   

Ever since he was a child, Hollon said running has always been something he was interested in.

“In third grade we had to run the mile during gym class, and I guess that’s just what inspired me to want to give running a try.” said Hollon.

Ever since then, running has been a part of his life. Hollon ran cross country all throughout middle school. Since joining boy’s cross country this year, he has earned a varsity spot on the team. His teammate, senior Tyler Veldhuizen, said Hollon is a great addition and benefit to the team.

“He’s probably the most talented freshman we’ve seen in a couple years,” said Veldhuizen. “He keeps a very upbeat personality, even on the days when we have hard workouts.”

Hollon said ever since he began running for the team he has made a lot of friends and enjoys the environment.

“I’ve made a lot of friends, mostly upperclassmen, “said Hollon, “But the whole team is fun.”

He hopes to continue running throughout high school and to continue to improve.

“What motivates me most is my will to succeed,” he said. “I’m very competitive.”

Story & Photo By: Maria Stroia

Lauren Brumbaugh

ll the hard work Lauren Brumbaugh has put into her volleyball career has finally paid off. Brumbaugh is now a senior starter, playing back row on Hoover’s talented volleyball team.

For the last seven years, Lauren has been putting in effort to her favorite sport both during the regular school season as well as during the off season. She plays for Varsity Elite, a volleyball team that plays on the weekends during the off season.

“I admire how much work Lauren puts into volleyball and how dedicated she is to the team,” said sophomore teammate, Julie Worley. “She is one of the leaders on and off the court and has a lot of experience.”

Brumbaugh said the best part of volleyball isn’t just playing, it’s also the team.

“My favorite part of playing is getting to play with my team because they are all fun, we are close and they all have great personalities,” she said.

Last year, Brumbaugh helped the Lady Vikes on their way to a federal league championship as well. There is no doubt that she has contributed a great deal to the team.

“Lauren is essential to the success of our team because she’s really a team player and helps the team out,” Worley said.

Brumbaugh is also considering a collegiate career as well.

“I would love to play in college, it sounds like a lot of fun. We’ll see what happens,” she said.