Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Madie Muller

Madie Muller is a freshman on the Riverview High girls cross-country team. Muller won the Lemon Bay Invitational (5K) on Aug. 24, finishing her first high school cross-country race in 19:12.70. 

When did you start competitive running?

I started in middle school, in sixth grade. I have played lacrosse since first grade and I have always been a midfielder, so I always loved to run. My family told me I had the endurance to run track, which I started in sixth grade, and I started cross-country in eighth grade. I joined a cross-country team in Tampa called The Bayshore Project. The coaches there are supportive and helped me get into running a few races. 

What is the appeal to you?

It is such an independent sport, which is different from lacrosse. You have to be strong mentally to do it. But after I run, my head feels clear. I feel like I can think better. It's just liberating. 

Do you prefer cross-country or track?

Cross-country. The terrain is always different and there is more of a community to it. Everyone knows how you have to train. In track, you have throwers and jumpers and sprinters, but in cross-country, everyone is running 3.1 miles. That's a big appeal to me. It feels like a family. 

What is your favorite running memory?

It is this past weekend (at the Lemon Bay Invitational). I had never run a high school cross-country race before. I did not expect to be out in front. I surprised myself with that. But my coaches and my family were confident in me. I just tried my best. Having everyone go crazy as I was finishing was so awesome. 

What are your expectations for the rest of the season?

I just want to keep getting better and help my team as much as I can. Every course is different, so I always have to be at my best. 

What is your favorite food?

I love Chick-fil-A. I get an eight-piece chicken nuggets meal with a Sunjoy. 

What is your favorite TV show?

I don't have one, honestly. I just watch whatever my sister (Emily Muller) puts on the TV. 

What are your hobbies?

I like to read. The "Harry Potter" series is my favorite series. When I can, I like to go to the beach and hang with my friends and family. 

What is your favorite school subject?

I like history classes, especially civics. I want to be a lawyer when I'm an adult. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Never get in your own head. It's a mental sport. You have to be tough. When your body says you can't do something, that's really your mind telling you that. You can push through it. 

Finish this sentence: "Madie Muller is …"

Determined.