Senior cross-country athlete Andrea Maidan won first place in the 6K race at the National Association of Intercollegiate (NAIA) at Apalachee Regional Park in Tallahassee, FL, on November 21, outrunning 28 racers over three and a half minutes, finishing in 25:02.78.

Before the race, Andrea was dealing with an Achilles injury and was unsure whether it would go as planned. With the trusted training she received from her coaches and teammates, and the nervousness and excitement, her mentality going into the 6K was to treat it like any other competition. During the race, Andrea recalls the only thing going on in her mind was “don’t trip at the starting line” and “try to finish as fast as possible” – and that she did. 

“Winning felt surreal to me,” she shared. “It meant more than just placing first in a race. It showcased the time and dedication I put into the cross-country team. This was a reminder that hard work does pay off and that anything is achievable when you put in the time and effort!”

Andrea had never been on PUC’s cross-country team before. With this being her last school year, she wanted to step out of her comfort zone and get involved in a supportive team environment. Especially after competing in Angwin to Angwish last year, PUC Cross-Country Coach Pablo Garrido encouraged her to join the team. “It was the best decision of my senior year thus far!” she said. 

You also earned a spot at Nationals. How did that feel, and how did you train for those competitions? 

This was incredibly rewarding! I did not think such an achievement was possible for me. Coach Pablo noted this was a possibility. However, I initially believed it was a bit far-fetched for me since there are many other strong and fast runners out there. Training remained the same, minus the team. 

It was just me, Manami, and Andrew training with our coaches rather than an entire team. Our 6:00 am practices were not through during the weeks leading up to Nationals. This meant that we would do the same long runs, hill-workouts, speed sessions, and easy runs during the week. 

What was your ritual before a race? 

I try to keep my ritual as consistent as possible. A breakfast with lots of carbs (usually oatmeal and bananas), wearing my favorite pair of socks, warming up, and praying before the race are the ways I prepare for an upcoming race. 

What was your experience like at Nationals? What did you enjoy the most from your time in Florida?

Nationals was a memorable experience. The race itself was filled with talented, top athletes from around the country. It was incredibly fun to run with such talented athletes! The support, traveling experience, and atmosphere were the most enjoyable parts of this trip. Sharing the experience with my teammates was unforgettable! 

What reactions and support did you receive from friends, family, and PUC after all your success this season?

The support was overwhelming in a positive way. My family and friends were extremely encouraging. The PUC community was also inspiring. Professors and peers would send me words of encouragement and emboldened me to keep up the good work. The support I received provided me more confidence and resilience to do my best at nationals. 

How did you stay motivated throughout the season?

Motivation was not a weakness for me, since running has always been a way for me to de-stress and relax. Although I needed motivation for our early morning practices, I reminded myself of the rewarding feeling running gives me. I always feel energized and driven to take on the day ahead of me after a difficult run with the rest of the XC team. Additionally, I was motivated to push past my comfort zone during our practices because I knew the difficult runs would improve my stamina and speed for upcoming races.

What values did you gain or learn about yourself from being on the team?

I learned that consistency and determination will never fail you. Natural talent is one thing, but it cannot beat someone who is consistently putting in the work to succeed. I discovered that I am capable of achieving more than I initially believed, especially when I put in the work. 

How were your relationships with your teammates? How did you all bond outside of practice?

My relationships with my teammates were the best parts of the season. We were able to bond during team travel, dinners, or just seeing them on campus. They’re some of the kindest people you will ever meet! 

How did you balance your time between school and sports?

Scheduling time for studies, homework, and sports required me to dial in on my organizational skills. For me, this meant communicating with professors, staying on top of my assignments by completing them during drives to or from races, and using my weekends to catch up on any missed lectures or study time. Having a routine kept this more manageable. 

How has becoming a college athlete impacted your life?

Becoming a college athlete taught me about time management and grit. It has pushed me both as a runner and as a student. The experiences and friendships I made on the XC team were among the most rewarding parts of my time at PUC.

Who is your favorite athlete?

Courtney Dauwalter is my favorite athlete. The feats she has accomplished are incomprehensible!  

How has attending PUC benefited your education and future career? 

PUC has been a critical component of my education, spiritual health, and well-being. The professors have been pivotal in developing my education and in helping me reach my career goals. Without their support and understanding, I wouldn’t have had the opportunities I do now.

The atmosphere and people on the PUC campus have contributed to my spiritual and emotional well-being throughout my time here. The positivity, community events, and compassion around this campus are qualities you cannot replicate anywhere else!

What is your favorite thing about being a part of the Pioneers community?

Positivity is one of my favorite things about being part of the Pioneers community. You will never leave an event without someone smiling at you or making you feel welcome. I have never met so many motivated and kind people.

Describe your perfect weekend at PUC

My perfect weekend is spent outdoors. There are so many beautiful hiking destinations (including the Back 40) to visit. Spending my free time hiking and exploring is the perfect way to spend a weekend for me.