To most athletes, running is either pure torture or a form of punishment. But to senior Dino Andrade, running has quickly became a sport he has fell in love with and became very successful. It became obvious that Andrade was not like “most athletes.”
“Coach Unger actually got me into running when I was in middle school,” said Andrade, “and I played soccer too, so I was use to running all of the time.”
This cross country season Andrade has led the Wildcats to several victories (both individual titles and team titles). With no surprise, Andrade was elected to be the cross country team captain.
“Dino is a leader by example,” stated Coach Unger. “He not only brings a low score (in cross country: the lower the score, the better) for the team, but he also elevates everyone around him to want to run better.”
In only the second meet of the season, Andrade shattered the school record for a 5K (3.2 miles) by over 20 seconds.
“It is a privilege to coach athletes like Andrade that are not only talented, but 100% committed.” said Cross Country coach Brett Unger. “He is a rare talent and a very hard worker.”
Andrade has become known as “The Machine” by many of his fellow teammates and Coach Unger.
“Coach Simmons started calling me ‘The Machine’ all the time when I use to play basketball,” said Andrade.
Andrade plans and hopes to be able to compete in Cross Country and Track and Field at the collegiate level. He has received numerous D1 scholarships, but has yet to receive any offers that have really stuck out to him.
The Wildcat cross country team and Andrade hope their great success during the season will carry over into the Conference and State Meets.
After winning numerous meets this season, Andrade is one of the lead contenders for winning the individual state title.
“He (Andrade) is the type of runner you train to be.” said fellow teammate Rickey Jones.
The Wildcats were one of the pre-season favorites to claim the state title after finishing in the top 5 the last two seasons.