For Collinsville senior Evy Cornwell, distance running is more than completing a course or chasing a time. It is a daily commitment to growth, perseverance and the teammates who have helped shape her journey with the Lady Cardinals.
Cornwell competes in varsity cross country and track for Collinsville High School. During cross country season, she races the 5K, while her track events include the 800, 1,600 and 3,200-meter runs, along with the 4×800 relay.
One of Cornwell’s favorite memories came early in her high school career, when the entire team advanced to the state meet during her freshman season.
“I’m most proud of my entire team making it to the state meet my freshman year. It was a super fun experience, and I had a whole group of amazing upperclassmen to look up to!”
That experience reinforced the team-first culture Cornwell values. Now a senior, she has the opportunity to provide the same example and encouragement for younger runners entering the program.
Cross country has also given Cornwell a perspective that reaches beyond the finish line. She began running in seventh grade and has learned that improvement comes through steady work overtime.
“Cross country has taught me the importance of perseverance and consistency. When I first started running in seventh grade, I never thought I’d be able to get to the fitness I’m at right now. But the truth is that anyone who is willing to put in the time and effort can reach their goals.”
That message has become important as Cornwell supports younger teammates who want to improve. She understands the uncertainty that can come with starting a demanding sport and uses her own experience to offer reassurance. A major influence has been former teammate Marcela Hernandez, who graduated in May. Cornwell said Hernandez’s approach to practices and competition left a lasting impression.
“My old teammate, Marcela Hernandez, has left the biggest impression on me as an athlete by far. She graduated this past May, and I truly don’t know what I’ll do without her. She always brought a positive mindset to practice and viewed every day as an opportunity to get better. She pushed me to get better, too, and she is genuinely the most supportive person I know. While she won’t be running the course with me this year, I know I’ll be able to hear her cheering from a mile away.”
Cornwell is grateful for the people in her corner, including her family, friends, teammates and coaches. She specifically thanked Coaches Smalygo, Schmauss and Rogers for their guidance throughout her high school athletic career.
