Nov. 19, 2008
Cross country freshman Nick Crits posted a solid rookie season this fall, one of several solid seasons turned in by a talented freshman class. Crits finished 27th overall at the Atlantic 10 Championship in Charlotte on Nov. 1st and was named the A-10's Most Outstanding Rookie as he finished tops among all conference freshmen. Now that the cross country season is winding down, Crits took a few minutes to give Explorers enthusiasts a peek into his experience at the championship, his athletic career and his transition to the collegiate level.
When did you start running competitively?
I started running competitively in 7th grade. My parents encouraged me to do it, so I gave it a shot and I liked it and stuck with it.
What is it about running that appeals to you?
I just go out there, have a lot of fun and never complain. Running is hard. You are going to have your good days and your bad days. Go out there and give it your best shot!
What other sports did you play growing up?
I played basketball, soccer, football with friends, baseball, and volleyball. I just played sports whenever I got the chance.
What is the greatest memory of your athletic career?
My greatest memory was when I was a senior in high school at the Pennsylvania State Championship and I won the mile running a 4:11. It let me leave (high school) and go to college on a good note.
What is the best advice you’ve received and who said it?
The best advice I received was probably my 8th grade year when my coach pulled me aside one day and told me that I have a lot of heart and always to stick with my sport going into high school and going into my life. After I heard that, it gave me a lot of confidence and it taught me to never give up.
Who do you consider your most influential role model?
That would have to be both of my parents. They are my role models because they have taught me a lot of things. My mom is an educator, so she helps me a lot with the education side. My dad is more on the athletic side and has helped me with a lot of sports. I’ve gotten a lot of knowledge from both of them.
What is the biggest difference between high school and college in terms of running?
In high school, I had a lot of competition with so many great runners, but everyone in college is the same and everyone runs together competitively. In college, you have to “step-up” the competition.
Can you talk about the A-10 Championship and how you prepared for your first one?
There were lots of people there. I’m sure everyone was nervous – I was pretty nervous myself going into the race. To get ready I got a lot of sleep, ate right, and so I was ready to jump off that starting line with the team as we went for our goal.
What did it mean to you to be named Most Outstanding Rookie?
Actually, I was surprised. When I heard my name called to get my award I really didn’t have anything to say, it was just very shocking. When I got that award, I just thought in my head that this isn’t just mine, but it’s also for the other freshmen on the team since our freshmen are considered among the best in the A-10. I give the award to Dave Hausherr, Sean Mallon, Tyler Jones... It’s not just mine; we all deserve it!
Why did you choose to come to La Salle?
I chose to come to La Salle for one, I liked their communications program. And the other reason is because of Coach Torpey. He’s one of the top coaches in the nation; he really helps the team out. He helps people out individually and gives you a lot of motivation, which makes you want to run hard for the guy.
What other schools did you look at?
Tennessee, North Carolina, Temple, Bloomsburg, Susquehanna, and there were other colleges too.
And now for a few fun questions! Who is your favorite pro athlete?
Michael Phelps and Jeremy Wariner (a track Olympian)
What is your favorite pro sports team?
The Phillies
What is your favorite TV show?
South Park
Favorite movie?
Remember the Titans
What is your favorite food?
Seafood
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
If I could have any superpower, it would definitely be superspeed!!!
