My name is Tessie Bradley and I am a junior at Maine South High School in Park Ridge Illinois. As a lifelong athlete, I participated in many sports although I always knew that I was a runner. My freshmen and sophomore year Cross Country seasons have been filled with many huge opportunities for an underclassman. In both 2023 and 2024, Maine South qualified for the State Cross Country meet. My sophomore year, I was able to dip under 18 minutes in the 3 mile at the CSL Conference meet (17:56.9) and at our Sectional meet (17:55.9). My goal for this season is to keep working hard every practice to achieve times in the mid-17 minute range. Track and Field has also provided many incredible opportunities. My freshman year, I primarily focused on the 800m individually and the 4×800 m relay. That season,  2024, I qualified for the IHSA State Track and Field meet in both the 800m run (2:20.29) and the 4×800 m relay. Last year, In 2025, I focused on the 1600m. During the indoor season at Illinois Indoor Championships, I ran a 5:12.86 1600m, which was 8 seconds faster than my previous PR.  As I anticipate the  2026 track season, I hope to dip under 2:18 in the 800 m and create a strong 4×800 that will qualify for the state meet. My goal is to run the 1600m and break the 5:05 barrier in that event, which I know is achievable with the proper focus and training.  My achievements are evident in the classroom as well. I am a strong student and I strive to excel in my coursework. Academically, my GPA is  4.0 / 4.3 (weighted) and consists of Accelerated and AP classes.  This year I am enrolled in a rigor driven schedule consisting of 2 AP Classes, 3 Accelerated and Honors classes and Junior Physical Education Leaders. I am devoted to my education and appreciate the many opportunities that my High School district provides for our community. 

My passion also lies beyond the running track.  When I’m not warming up for a race, you’ll find me exercising my creative talents on stage in the Performing Arts building. To date, I am a 3 year band member excelling as a percussionist in both the Maine South High School Marching Band and Symphonic Bands. I also express my musical interests through singing as a 3 year Vocal Choir member with involvement in Honors Choir and Concert Choir.  As a team player, I enjoy the camaraderie of group organizations and I always bring my personal best.  Whether it’s through  sports or music, I believe everyone’s performance plays an important part in the success of the team.  Additionally, I am a student leader in Hawk Pride and Maine South Junior Leaders, both highly selective and very visible faculty appointed positions within upperclassman organizations. In these roles I represent my school as a person with grit and tenacity who is always willing to go the extra mile for the success of our student body. In addition, I am a proud member of the Italian Club, Key Club and I volunteer weekly as a 3rd grade religious education teacher at our local parish.  In the summertime, I work as a certified lifeguard at our community pools on a team that oversees a capacity of 200+ swimmers and campers. In this role I have learned responsibility, leadership and most importantly, compassion and patience.   

I am more than just a runner.  I am a multifaceted athlete who is fully committed to my sport. I love everything that running has given me both athletically and personally.  My passion has led to strength and endurance; not just as an athlete but as a student, mentor and friend.  I always try to be my best, rise to the challenges that are before me and strive to be better, not defeated.  As I enter my junior year I will push myself to achieve my goals as a distance runner while consistently working on being the best version of myself. For more information, please email me at tessiebradley2027@gmail.com.