By TIM BIRNEYValley Sports Report
HERSHEY — Athens sophomore Alissa Vough never envisioned running at States, but that's exactly what she'll be doing Saturday at the PIAA Class AA Cross-Country Championships.
"I never imagined going to States," she said. "I'm really excited, it's going to be an amazing experience. I can't wait.
"I've definitely been very excited the last week," added Vough. "It's really boosted my confidence."
Will nerves play a factor in Vough's first trip to States?
"I am a little nervous since it's my first time going, but I think I'll be fine," she said.
Athens coach Mike Bronson thinks Vough is ready for the big stage.
"I think she'll probably be a little bit nervous being there for the first time," he said. "It's a big, big stage, her first state championship, but she's handled the pressure really well all along.
"She's been around the program for a number of years, and she's run in some big meets, like the McQuaid Invitational.
"She handles the pressure with no trouble," added Bronson. "I think she'll go down there and be ready to run a good race."
Vough has a recipe for success at Hershey.
"I just need to keep doing what I have been doing the whole season, have strong finishes, and definitely just compete.
"There's a high amount of competition to just work with those people and get up there," she said.
"I can't go out too fast in the beginning," added Vough. "I have to stay under control and run my race."
Athens coach Scott Riley agrees with Vough's keys to success.
"I think she'll be successful if she doesn't change what she's been doing. She's been very consistent throughout the years.
"She's had a level head," said Riley. "We've been at lot of bigger meets, and she's just treated those like another day, another meet, another race and hasn't get caught up in the hype. I think she'll do the same thing (Saturday).
"Obviously, I hope she takes it in, and enjoys it, because it is a special moment, but it doesn't change the race strategy and how you go and compete and approach it," added Riley.
Vough's goals for the state meet doesn't include a time or a place finish.
"I just want to have a strong race, finish how I know I can, and just compete," she said.
The Class AA girls race is set to begin at 10:45 a.m. Saturday.
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IN PHOTO: Athens sophomore Alissa Vough.
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