My name is Levi Turner, and I am a junior at Wheaton North High School, graduating with the Class of 2027. I am excited about the opportunity to continue growing as a student-athlete and to compete at the collegiate level in cross country and track. 

For most of my childhood and through freshman year, soccer was my primary sport. My coach consistently put me on defense, because he knew I could run down an opponent even if they slipped past me on the first encounter. If I didn’t win the ball the first time, I’d make sure I got it the second. Looking back, that instinct to close gaps and keep pushing forward was the earliest sign that I was built for running. 

During freshman track, I found success in the mid-distance events, which led to qualifying for New Balance Nationals in the 800m the summer after my first season. That experience motivated me to devote all my sports seasons to running, and since then I’ve focused on maximizing my potential. 

As a sophomore, I recorded personal bests of: 

• 400m – 52.50 

• 800m – 1:59.36 

• 1600m – 4:34.75 

Currently, I am competing in cross country and have run a 3-mile best of 16:10, with the goal of breaking 15:30 this fall. Looking ahead to my junior track season, I am working toward 1:54 in the 800m and under 4:20 in the 1600m. 

Running has taught me to embrace hard work, discipline, and persistence – qualities that carried over from soccer but found their full expression in track and cross country. I thrive on the challenge of pushing myself, but I also value being part of a team and contributing to something bigger than myself. 

That commitment extends beyond running. During the summer, I volunteer with Puente del Pueblo, a ministry of my church that serves under-resourced communities near me. Whether I am tutoring, mentoring, or supporting programs for the younger students, I’ve seen how giving time and effort to others can make a real difference. Much like in running, the reward comes from being part of something larger than yourself and knowing your work helps the whole team—or community—move forward. 

The lessons I’ve learned through running – discipline, perseverance, and consistency – have also shaped me academically. I currently hold a 4.25 weighted GPA, and I approach school with the same determination I bring to training. The balance of athletics, academics, and service has shown me that the habits built on the track can impact every area of my life. 

I know there is still room for me to grow. Every race and practice are opportunities to learn, improve, and test what I’m capable of. More than just hitting times, I want to keep building the consistency, resilience, and mindset that will prepare me for success at the collegiate level. I’m eager to contribute not only as an athlete, but also as a dependable teammate and student who helps raise the standard for the whole program. 

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my journey. I look forward to the opportunity to connect and to share how I can contribute to your program. For more information, please email me at leviturner2027@gmail.com.