Nariah Bump was part of the first ever track program at Calvin and qualified for state in the 800-meter, mile and two-mile runs.
VYPE: What do you enjoy most about your sport?
Nariah: Being able to share the season with teammates and make memories, qualifying for the state track meet, the rewards of hard work and dedication, setting new personal records.
VYPE: What made you decide to start playing your sport?
Nariah: To be able to run with my older brother and to be the first group to start a new sport at our school.
VYPE: What is the biggest lesson you have learned from your sport?
Nariah: You won’t accomplish anything if you don’t work for it. This applies to track as well as life.
VYPE: What do you do to lead your team?
Nariah: I lead team warm-ups, try to be their biggest cheerleader, make sure we are all pitching in and helping with all equipment.
VYPE: What advice would you give to someone who wants to play your sport?
Nariah: Have good shoes, improvement may be slow, learn to pace yourself.
VYPE: Who is your biggest role model?
Nariah: My mom because she has always held me to high standards which has instilled that in myself and my work ethic. If I would not have had my mom holding me to high standards I would not be as successful in my running and high school career.
VYPE: What else are you involved in outside of athletics?
Nariah: National Honor Society, church, community service projects, student council, 4-H, HOSA.
VYPE: Why are you passionate about your sport?
Nariah: Since I was in the first group of athletes getting to start track, I wanted to finish out my high school career and keep pushing myself to be better.
VYPE: Which teacher has made the biggest impact on you?
Nariah: My coach, Kelly Harrison, because she got me to believe in myself, she pushes me by holding me accountable, and by making practices and meets fun.