Leading up to the 2013 Mason track & field season, we will be giving fans an opportunity to get to know a student-athlete on the team.

This week we talked with Amanda Denger as she prepares for her junior season with the Patriots.

Be sure to check back next week as we meet another Mason T&F athlete.

Name: Amanda Denger
Year in School: Junior
Events: Heptathlon/Pentathlon

-What attracted you to Mason?
The teammates that I met on my recruit visit, the awesome campus and its location.

-When did you start competing in track?
I tried it out sophomore year of high school not thinking I would get to run much because I played lacrosse the same season.

-What is your favorite thing about T&F?
It's that feeling of accomplishment after competing successfully; but honestly, it is my teammates that make me love the sport year round.

-What track memory stands out the most for you?
The conference meet my freshman year and coming in with no confidence but leaving successfully. And then watching the entire team come together, it was all unforgettable.

-What is your major, and what are your plans after graduation?
My major is in Kinesiology.  My plans are to work for a few years then go to grad school for business.  Eventually I would love to have my own gym in the area.

-What are your goals for the upcoming season?
My number one goal is for the women's team to win conference, then to compete individually at nationals.

-What does your typical off-season training consist of?
Long runs, strides, swimming, biking and above all, other sports!

-What is your favorite event to compete in the heptathlon/pentathlon and why?
The 200. It's one of the least mentally complex events; it's fast, not too long, not too short, and when you finish, you're done with day one.  All I have to do is 'run fast'.

-What was your biggest accomplishment last season?
Coming back from a fall at conference. Mentally, it was tough for me.

-You have claimed the CAA title in the heptathlon each of the past two seasons, and continue to move up the Mason All-Time Records list with your performances.  How do you build on your past success while continuing to improve?
It's going to be about the little things this year. Focusing on my weakest events, becoming more consistent, eating healthier and getting enough sleep- every little thing counts.  And as always, I just focus on what I need to do, not what my competitors are doing.

Quick Facts

-What is the last song you played on your iPod?
Be Calm, by Fun.

-Who is your biggest role model?
My Aunt Lynn and Ryann Krais (a heptathlete at Kansas State). Neither of them knows this though.

-Who is your favorite track athlete?
Hyleas Fountain, I met here on our own track! I was so excited! But Jessica Ennis is an absolutely an amazing athlete. I can't decide.

-The best advice I ever received was...
"It is okay to hurt, it is supposed to hurt" (in regards to the 800m) -Coach Gerard

-Two words to describe you...
Positive and colorful