By Amara Evans, Staff Writer
Everyone dreams of being the best and achieving the most, but Cady Prochazka (‘25) didn’t need to be anything but herself in order to catch the attention of others. Recently, she’s been awarded the Athlete of the Year Award for cross country, feeling admired by her teammates and coaches.
Prochazka has been running track for four years and cross country for three. Running creates a strong mental space for her that allows her to be able to cool off from the daily stress of school.
El Camino’s cross country team helped Prochazka form friendships and leadership skills, creating some of her closest friends. The bonds made with not only the teammates but with the coaches makes for easy conversations and reliable help when needed.
Prochazka has been struggling with injuries recently, and through the help and support of her coaches, she has been able to continue running and get the assistance she needs.
“[My coaches gave me] ways to help me run better, and be better, because they have experience. So, all the little tips and tricks I didn’t know before [helped a lot],” Prochazka stated.
Prochazka’s award was earned not because she’s the fastest on the team, but because she comes to practice with high determination and a great work ethic that makes her stand out from the others.
One of her coaches, Julianne Curtis, is grateful for Prockazkas fun and enthrilling personality on the team, able to lift anyone up on a bad day.
“She encourages the other runners, supports them when they are struggling, and celebrates with them when they succeed,” Curtis stated.
Prochazka is a valued member of the team and proud to accept the Athlete of the Season Award.
One of Prochazka’s close friends and teammates, Ellie Nelson (‘25), is, without fail, supported and uplifted whenever Prochazka is cheering for her teammates on the sidelines. Prochazka’s spirit is not unnoticed or unappreciated. She is always giving her teammates the full attention and recognition they deserve.
“She’s always very supportive. She’s one of the loudest cheerers—[as well as supporting] some of the younger kids that are maybe new to the sport,” Nelson said.
For those who are new to the sport, Prochazka encourages them to run for the mental aspect. School can be very stressful for some, but Prochazka uses cross country and track to run off the built up steam.
“You have to believe in yourself and keep telling yourself that you can do it…find people like that you can run with, it’s 100 times easier when you have someone next to you,” Prockazka stated.
A recent study by WebMD states that running helps control added pressure and can cool off the mind during mental tension, as well as clear any schoolwork-stress or rambling thoughts.
Prochazka’s family, including her younger brother, mom and dad are always there to help lift her up and encourage when needed. Prochazka’s mother ran when she was in high school and proceeded to give her daughter little tips and pointers throughout her training.
Her father has also been very supportive.
“Driving me to meets, and making sure that I’m where I need to be…And he’s really good about making sure I actually take care of my [injured] foot,” Prochazka expressed.
Prochazka never fails to try her hardest or push herself to the max. Her persistence and strong personality are greatly recognized by her team, coaches, and friends, increasing her love for the sport. Running isn’t easy, but when you’re as dedicated and engaged as Prochazka, you can achieve a lot.
Cross Country’s next meets are Oct. 26 at Gibson Ranch Regional Park, Nov. 9 at Angels Camp and Nov. 16 at Willow Hill Reservoir, Folsom.
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