De Anza College freshman track runner Laurel Morrow knew what she wanted to do after high school, even if it meant leaving her hometown of South Lake Tahoe.
After attending a local Lake Tahoe community college that did not have an athletic program, Morrow, who has been running competitively since the age of 15, wanted to attend a college that would allow her to focus of her passions. She found De Anza.
“I basically came here to run and to participate in the photography program,” said Morrow. “De Anza offered me both [athletics and photography], which was something I couldn’t really find in other colleges. I really want to become a photographer.”
This is Morrow’s first year running track competitively. She began running cross country as a sophomore in high school, and has found running track as a familiar alternative activity.
“My brother was a runner, and it made sense for me to stay in shape for cross country,” Morrow said. “It’s also a great way to meet people.”
Head Coach David Flynn didn’t hesitate to praise Morrow: “She’s probably the strongest distance runner we have. She even recently won the 800-meter run at West Valley for us. She just couldn’t have academics without athletics.”
“She keeps to herself a lot, and can be kind of quiet,” Flynn said. “She kind of sits in the shadows sometimes, but works hard. Sometimes you have to try to make contact with her. She’s introverted.”
Despite her shy qualities, Morrow says that she finds the track and field team to be like a big group of friends.
“We’re like a big family,” Morrow said, laughing. “Something happens every day with our team. We do everything together. I know that all sports teams are like that, but I just feel that all of us are good friends.”
Teammate Kie Hill said she appreciates what Morrow brings to the team.
“She’s really supportive,” Kie said. “When other people are running, she’ll cheer them on. She’s a great sport, too. She knows other people on other teams, and cheers them on as well.”
Hill not only feels that Morrow tightens the team camaraderie, but that she remains determined as well.
“‘Focused’ is a good words to describe her,” Hill said.
Flynn has never questioned Morrow’s determination.
“She called me all the way from South Lake Tahoe,” Flynn said, smiling. “I’d call that dedication.”
Hometown:Lake Tahoe, Calif.
Birthday:July 3, 1987Year:FreshmanSpeciality:1500mMajor:PhotographyDream School:Sacremento StateFavorite Pro Athelete(s):Kelly SlaterRob Machado (surfers)Most Memorable Track Moment:Qualifying for theStanford invitational