Since entering high school play as a freshman, Praska has competed in the Class 2A girls' cross-country state meet each year. Last year she finished 79th with a time of 15 minutes, 29.4 seconds over the 4-kilometer course at St. Olaf College in Northfield. Here is a closer look at Praska:
Q: Three words my friends or teammates might use to describe me?
A: Leader, dedicated and caring.
Q: At my first varsity practice, I felt …
A: … really nervous. I had no idea how I would be able to run 4 miles.
Q: What did you work on most prior to the start of the season?
A: I put in a lot of miles to build endurance as well as strength training.
Q: To get focused for a meet, I …
A: ... strategize my race and set goals for my mile splits.
Q: What is your most memorable moment as a high school athlete?
A: My cross-country team and I making it to Nike Nationals in Oregon my sophomore year.
Q: How do you balance school and sports during the year?
A: Managing my time wisely and efficiently.
Q: Do you have a secret talent – and if so, what is it?
A: I don't know if this would count as a talent, but I can crack my neck, back, shoulders, hips, fingers and ankles.
Q: In 10 years, I hope I'm …
A: ... working in a career in the zoology or biology field.
Q: What is the best sports advice you ever received?
A: Run confidently and with no regrets.
RON HAGGSTROM