Austin Vincent ’18 recently joined The Hill School community from Stockton, Illinois to pursue his postgraduate year.
Vincent accounts that he struggled transitioning into the Hill lifestyle, describing it as “nerve wrecking.” However, he was able to find a routine through joining the boys’ cross country team.
With help from captains Kyle Gorant ’18, and Reed Bauer ’18, Austin has been able to insert himself easily onto the team.
“Cross country has made it easier to find friends and a place where I can fit in,” Vincent said. “It has made me more of a leader as well.”
Vincent’s accomplishments have not gone unheard of, as he ran an astonishing 5K time of 16:55 and has a personal record of 16:42. His arrival brings needed depth to an already strong team, adding to their 5-0 record in dual meets.
“Austin adds both strength at the front as well as depth to our team,” Christopher DeLucia, head cross country coach, said. “He is also a role model of a hard worker with a great attitude and brings positive energy to the team in many ways.”
Vincent’s’s constant positive energy has made him a player to watch in upcoming sport events.
Vincent prepares for his races by putting his headphones on and going on a pre-race run.
“I don’t talk much before the race and try to concentrate on how I am going to attack each mile of the course,” Vincent said.
He describes cross country as something that improves his mental state, and encourages him to “keep going.”
Boys’ cross country captain Kyle Gorant ’18 believes the team has improved tremendously and has a good chance at winning the MAPL championship.
“Austin surprised us all and helped us bring our team to the next level,” Gorant said.
Vincent also believes the team has a “real shot” at winning MAPLs this year.
“We are pretty even with a Peddie and Lawrenceville at this point,” Vincent said. “If we push harder in practices and run great at MAPLs I truly believe we have a chance.”
This weekend the boys’ cross country team will take on Blair and Coventry Christian on Hill’s home course.