By TIM BIRNEYValley Sports Report
WAVERLY — Waverly senior Mackenzie Chamberlain was excited about her future after a visit to Slippery Rock. So much so, she signed a National Letter-of-Intent Monday to run cross country and track & field there next fall.
Chamberlain said she chose Slippery Rock because of its similarities to Waverly
"I chose (Slippery Rock) because since of the recruiting process I've wanted a really big team with a similar dynamic to what we have here (at Waverly).
"I went to visit and they have so many opportunities for me," she said.
"I wanted a small school, but a bigger small school," Laughed Chamberlain. "I wanted a bigger small school, and that's exactly what Slippery Rock is."
"Everyone there is so athletically motivated, too. I feel like being there is going to inspire me to do to so many great things," Chamberlain added.
Waverly cross country coach Nate Culver said Chamberlain will succeed at the next level due to her work ethic and love of the sport.
"One of Mackenzie’s finest attributes is her ability to fully invest herself in accomplishing what she sets her mind to," said Culver. "She’s overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles, never taking the easy way out or giving in when times were tough.
"Kenzie’s perseverance is going to lead to a multitude of successes in various aspects of her life.
"Slippery Rock is gaining a tremendous leader," added Culver. "Kenzie has a genuine ability to disseminate the enjoyment she has for running to her teammates, which enhances morale and overall team cohesion."
Chamberlain, who missed cross country season, is battling back from an injury in an effort to compete this winter during the indoor track season.
"I ended up having a stress fracture in my hip, so I didn't get to run at all during cross country season," she said. "I ran in one fun meet.
"I'm going to miss some of the indoor season, but I'm hoping, if everything continues to go well that I'll be able to run the indoor meet in about two weeks.
"Ive started running a little bit ... I've run about five times, but we're getting there," laughed Chamberlain.
Getting healthy is the first step toward success at the next level, says Chamberlain.
"I think my top priority right now is strength training and cross training because I want to make sure I can stay healthy," she said.
"I would rather have a bit slower but consistent next few seasons than have one fast race, then be completely injured.
"I need to get healthy first, that's definitely my main priority right now, then the work I put in this summer is going to be so, so important," Chamberlain added.
Chamberlain will be majoring in pyschology and plans on Sports Psychology for her graduate studies.
"I want to be a sports psychologist and work with collegiate athletes."
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IN PHOTO 1: Waverly's Mackenzie Chamberlain. ... PHOTOS PROVIDED.
