My name is Derek Williamson in the class of 2027 and I run track and cross country at Naperville Central High School in Illinois. This past fall, in my first cross country season, I ran a PR of 14:58 at the Illinois Class 3A state meet. So far in my junior track season, I have run PR’s of 9:37 in the 3200, 4:29 in the 1600, 1:59 in the 800, and 52.8 in a 400 split. As the season continues, I’m striving to reach my goals of 9:15 in the 3200, 4:20 in the 1600, 1:54 in the 800, and 50 in the 400. I set goals for myself because they give me something to keep working toward and a standard to hold myself to. I also hold myself to a high standard academically to obtain a 4.235 GPA while taking many honors and AP classes. I am also involved in many extracurricular activities like Young Men’s Service League, Veteran’s Club, National Honors Society, Spanish Club, and Spanish Honors Society.  

I have always loved pushing myself physically through sports and constantly challenging myself to keep growing and improving. I also have a background of playing baseball, soccer, and swimming at high levels as well. Throughout my life I have built an immense competitive edge through these sports, and it has brought me to where I am now. I ultimately chose to focus on track and cross country because of the team culture and bonds that I have made with teammates. They push me every single day to become a better version of myself and create such a positive environment. I love the support and culture from these teams and would be honored to continue building those relationships at the collegiate level. 

On the track and field team, I have also stepped up as a leader and was selected as a team captain by the coaches and former captains. As a captain, I try to set the standard through my work ethic, consistency, and the way I support my teammates. I’m excited about the opportunity to continue developing as both a runner and a student at the collegiate level. For more information, please email me at derekmwilliamson2027@gmail.com.