Getting cut from the team is every athlete’s worst nightmare. Often it derails one’s love for a sport, but for some it also forces the athlete into bettering themselves.

When junior Alizabeth (Liz) Hicks was cut from the volleyball team this fall, it was not the end to her fall sports season. She decided to try something new and joined the cross country team.

“I walked out of try-outs and saw Coach Devereaux standing outside and decided I was going to ask if I could join the team,” said Hicks. “Getting cut sucked, but I wasn’t going to let it stop me from competing in some way.”

Her passion for athletics has slowly evolved into a passion for running. The sport of cross country and support from her team has helped Hicks push herself to her greatest limits.

“People ask me if I’m a runner, I think about it, and I’m forced to say yes,” said Hicks.  “I’ve put in so much work this season and I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Without the people on my team, I don’t think I could have done it.”

The team does not just have an impact on Hicks, but Hicks has a heavy impact on her team. Known as the source of positivity in the group, Hicks’ presence has been a key factor to many of her teammates success.

Coach Darwin Devereaux defines who Hicks really is from one of her physical attributes.

“Her smile is Liz,” said Deveraux. “When she comes up to you her smile gives you her whole personality. She’s positive, she’s energetic, you can even see her athleticism in that smile.”

Hicks’ determination to grow as an athlete has inspired many other members of the team.

“For being a first year runner she shows leadership. When she’s expected to do something she gives her best effort all the time,” said Devereaux.

Though cross country was not her first choice in sport Hicks is determined to do the best she can and always aims to beat her previous time.

“It wasn’t what I expected to do at first, but I’m so happy I’m doing it now,” said Hicks. “Sometimes it makes you feel terrible, but when you finish the race, that’s the best feeling in the world.”

Hicks plans on continuing her new found love through her senior year and hopes to achieve a sub 25 minute 5k race time.