Oct. 1, 2008

Fairfax, Va. - Samantha Fickel is gearing up for a strong sophomore season at George Mason as the cross country season gets in full swing heading into October. The top women's runner for Mason in their first two meets of the year, Fickel is prepared to lead a young squad in building a solid foundation for the cross country program this season. Fickel is also a member of the indoor and outdoor track programs, competing as a distance runner. She recently sat down with GoMason.com for a short interview.

Question: After having one year of collegiate competition behind you, what expectations do you have for yourself?
Fickel: After having one year of collegiate competition under my belt, I feel more comfortable and have more confidence in myself when competing at a higher level. The expectations I have for myself include improving on every aspect of my race. I need to work hard during practice and in the classroom if I want to improve. I now know what it takes to race at the Division I level, and with the help of Coach Gerard I feel as though I will be able to accomplish my goals.

Question: How does the team look this season from your perspective?
Fickel: Even though we are a young team, we have a lot of potential for the future. As for this season, it will be a great building year and become a solid foundation to build from. The young women are all supportive of each other and have bonded well as a team. I am very excited to get to know all of the girls better and be able to share our success together.

Question: What upperclassmen really helped you transition last year from the high school to the collegiate level?
Fickel: The two people who really helped me transition into college were Melissa Ferry and Crystal Lawrence. These two ladies have become two of my best friends and have helped me on and off the track.

Question: What was your biggest challenge when you first came to Mason?
Fickel: My biggest challenge was balancing my school work with running. Time management is a very important skill in which I am still trying to master.

Question: How have Coach Gerard and his staff helped you become a better runner?
Fickel: Coach Gerard and his team of coaches have helped give me the skills and knowledge I need to succeed in running. Coach Gerard and his staff are all very talented coaches who know a lot about running, and I am thrilled to be working with them this year.

Question: What made you choose to come to Mason?
Fickel: I chose Mason for several reasons, and one was because of its nursing program. Another reason I picked Mason was for track, as well as how close it was to Washington D.C. Also, because I am about two hours from home and didn't want to go any farther away. So, I feel like it's a perfect match.

Question: How are you able to find a balance between the demands of being an athlete with the demands of also performing well in the classroom?
Fickel: Time management is an important part in being able to succeed both in the classroom and on the track. Balancing when I need to get work done compared to when practice time is can be a struggle some days, but somehow I manage.

Question: Your major is nursing, what made you interested in that field?
Fickel: I have always been interested in the medical field because of my family. I love working with people and helping them in any way possible.

Question: What do you like to do in your free time?
Fickel: In my free time I like to catch up on my sleep! I also enjoy hanging out with my friends and going shopping.