The cross-country team has had a very strong season so far. A number of athletes have medaled in high-stakes invitational meets, and both the boys’ and girls’ teams have beat out several other MCPS schools at divisional races. A few stand-out athletes, notably senior Madeline (Maddy) Quirion, have led the way. Quirion has excelled as an athlete in her four years, running cross-country along with winter and spring track.

“First and foremost, I run for fun. It’s exciting to push myself to the limits and see improvement,” said Quirion. “Running can get pretty frustrating; there have been months where it feels like I’ve completely stagnated- or even regressed. These are really hard times for me, without that pride and sense of accomplishment it’s hard to stay motivated. But working through those times is its own sort of win, and there are several other things to keep me motivated when it gets tough. I’m so grateful to have my team, coaches, and family to help me believe in myself and keep fighting.”

Quirion has a long history of leadership within the Sherwood running program, initially attaining the role of captain during her sophomore year winter track season. She has since become a captain in cross-country and spring track as well, working to advise coaches on workouts and lead the team through practices. Although her exact role may differ depending on the season, she consistently maintains an active presence in guiding the team. A major struggle Quirion faces is time managment. Juggling practice after school every day on top of schoolwork and other activities can prove difficult at times.

“I’ve given up a lot of things, mostly socially, but also other extracurriculars and the classes I can take to run, “ explained Quirion. “For all the things I’ve given up and hard work I’ve put in, I’ve earned amazing opportunities and become elite at something- not every highschooler can say that! I love my team. They’re my best friends, and I’m more than happy to spend 15 hours a week with them or more. It’s also strengthened my persistence, and ingrained in me a work ethic I didn’t have before high school. Cross country took a girl who might turn two assignments in on time per quarter, and didn’t really put much effort or practice into anything, into someone who will literally devote her body and soul to running a couple seconds faster. I’m lucky to have found this passion.”

As Quirion’s running career has progressed she has entertained the possibility of furthering her career by running in college. The process is challenging and not every school she reaches out to is interested, but she has found success in making contacts.

“I’ve gone on three visits this month, two overnight and one that was just a day trip. I visited two D3 schools, Emory and Tufts, and one D1 school which is Fordham,” said Quirion. “It’s super fun and exciting to meet the team. I get to spend all day or days shadowing them in classes, getting to know them, touring campus. I also get to sit down with the coach and talk through next steps and what they’re looking for.”

Quirion has yet to make a final decision on the future of her running career, but it is clear that running has made a positive impact on her life. “Every time I do something that once felt impossible: winning a race, getting a PR, being proud of myself is the best part. I can struggle with my self esteem at times, so it’s incredible to prove myself wrong and show myself what I am capable of,” explained Quirion.