Alyssa Ceja is currently a sophomore runner on the Varsity Cross Country team. Ceja joined Varsity last year as a freshman, and from the start, she has far surpassed expectations.
Ceja currently holds a 4 x 16 record in track, and is second in line for a sophomore record in cross country.
Ceja runs for many reasons and it has blessed her in many ways. She believes that running is very rewarding, though it can be hard at some times. Ceja explains what she’s gotten out of this sport, she states, “I’ve gotten so many friends who I love so much, and even my alumni who I still talk to daily”. Not only has she become more mentally tough, but she’s acquired friendships and skills along the way.
Ceja explains adversities that she has overcome, she really opened up about the obstacles of running that everyone may not realize. Her freshman season, she battled injuries with her hip, which held her back from competing at her highest potential. However, she has been able to realize that overcoming these obstacles have made her mentally tough, and Ceja is confident that she can endure hard things. Ceja runs long distances, which is one of the most difficult events.
“The hardest part is just getting yourself to do it”, says Ceja as she explains you have to tell yourself that it’ll be worth it in the end, and pain is only temporary. She tries to keep positive thoughts in her mind while running, but she says that most of the time her thoughts are to not fall during her race.
Ceja motivates herself during a difficult race by remembering who she runs for. She runs for her teammates, and for Valley, but overall for the glory of God. Ceja states that running has changed her as a person overall
“Running has taught me to be more patient because it has shown me that results don’t come immediately, and it has also taught me to be just more hard working”, said Ceja.
She states that running, “…has been one of the biggest blessings of my life and my coaches are amazing. I’m so grateful to be able to run at and for Valley”.
Alyssa Ceja also wanted to get a message across to the viewers, “Join cross! It’s a fun time, and the training is actually not that horrible, and the best part is, we get pasta on Fridays”.