Tatiana Villanueva, who also goes by the name Tati, is a senior at Saugus High school on the varsity track team. Tati is not only a dedicated and talented runner but also a successful student with good grades, while balancing a busy athletic schedule. Her outgoing personality makes her a well liked teammate and a dependable friend. Whether she is pushing herself at practice or in the classroom she always manages to stay focused.
Tati is known as a hardworking athlete and an outgoing person. She portrays her strong running ability and determination during competitions. Tatiana got involved in track and field her junior year but always had a strong passion for running. Before track she was on the girls basketball team and always looked forward to practice because of the running aspect of it. Being on track has taught her resilience and to keep pushing even when things get challenging. Running requires a lot of skill, but Tati has a natural talent for it.
During Tati’s interview, she shared her experiences on varsity track and how the sport has shaped her. She first gave her thoughts about it being her last year. Tati said, “As a senior this year feels a little different, I’m never gonna be on the same team again with our amazing support system, so this year I’m really trying to embrace it and give my last year my all”. Tatiana then shared what she does when practice is tough. “On days when practice was tough, it was definitely hard to stay motivated but being on the 4×4 team, I knew I had 3 other girls counting on my improvement and always cheering me on when I was struggling”. Her coach has also played a big role in her success. “Coach Standley always reminds us that how we run/practice when we are tired is important and key to build discipline and finish our races strong even when we may want to slow down or give up”. Since her final school year is coming to an end, Tati shared what her plans are after she graduates. “After I graduate high school, I plan to keep running a habit, I may not be running for a college track team but always running simply for my love of the sport”. Lastly, she gave advice to underclassmen who have thought about joining track. “To the underclassmen who have given thought to joining our track team, I would say do it! I didn’t join till my junior year and I regret being too scared before. You get an amazing family and support system out of it. So worth it!”.
As Tatiana’s senior year comes to a close, her impact on the Saugus High School varsity track team is clear. Through her dedication she has proven herself to be more than a strong runner but a role model to the people around her. Tati leaves behind a legacy of positivity and commitment that will be remembered long after her final race.
