Athlete Profile: Aubree Zastrow

The Shawano Community High School track and field team has been led by a number of talented athletes this spring. Senior Aubree Zastrow is among the list of athletes leading the way.
As of May 30, Zastrow had competed in the 100-meter hurdles and 300 hurdles five times this spring. She’s placed first in the 300 hurdles on four occasions, while placing first in the 100 hurdles three times.

Zastrow has taken part in the long jump competitions at seven meets, placing in the top five every time. She’s placed first twice and second twice.

Q: When did your interest in track and field begin?

A: When I was younger, I used to just love to run around my house. Once I found out what track was in middle school, I joined. So, I would say I always had a passion for running but I started to get into track my sixth grade year.

Q: What is your favorite part about the track and field season?

A: Throughout my seven years of track and field, I have had a lot of fun with the sport. Every time track season came around, I always looked forward to making memories with my friends on the team, the bus rides, and meeting others from different schools.

Q: What is your favorite event to compete in, and why?

A: My favorite event to complete in would have to be 300-meter hurdles or long jump. I like the 300 hurdles because, when I’m getting ready at the starting line, I get super nervous. At the end of the race and I cross that finish line, I feel like I have accomplished so much. The main reason I like long jump is because my first jump is always short so when I hear my length for long jump grow, it makes me want to keep pushing for a PR (personal record).

Q: In order to end the season strong and then advance in the postseason, what do you need to do personally?

A: Personally, when season ends I need to take care of myself. I’ll probably ice/heat, stretch, and workout during postseason.

Q: Your team has enjoyed a lot of success this spring. How much fun has it been competing with this particular team?

A: My teammates and I work hard to bring the success that we have had so far this season. It is so much fun competing with my teammates. They are super nice and fun to be around which makes it a whole lot better.

Q: With it being your senior season and the season lasting longer than usual, how do you plan to stay engaged and focused as the regular season winds down and the postseason nears?

A: Throughout this long season, I would say it’s been hard on all of us. I plan on staying engaged and focused just by knowing I have bigger meets ahead.

Q: Before a meet begins, do you have any rituals you go through?

A: Before a meet begins, I always listen to music, but I do not consider that my ritual. I would have to say my ritual is I warm up for long jump, and then I take two jumps. After my two jumps, I leave to run the 100 hurdles. Once I have finished the race, I then go back more warmed up to jump my last one or two jumps.

Q: What is your favorite memory of competing on the Shawano track and field team?

A: This is a very difficult question because I have made so many memories throughout my seven years of track. I would have to say one of my favorite memories is in middle school was when we won conference champs. This year my favorite memory would have to be my PR for the 300 hurdles (at the May 4 West De Pere Quad).

Q: Favorite TV show, movie and musical artist?

A: TV show — “Breaking Bad.” Movie — “Safe Haven.” Musical artist — Bryson Tiller.

Q: Name one thing about yourself that not many people know?

A: One thing most people do not know about me is that I was make sure I’m doing the right thing if it is important. I double check a lot and constantly ask questions for reassurance.

Q: What’s the greatest piece of advice you have ever been told?

A: The greatest piece of advice I have been told is be patient and persistent. Basically, this is saying there is more to life then what you accomplish, it is also the obstacles you overcome.

Q: What are some things you hope to accomplish after graduating high school?

A: The one thing I mainly want to accomplish after high school is graduating from college.

AT A GLANCE

Athlete: Aubree Zastrow

Sport: Track and field

Events: 100 hurdles, 300 hurdles, long jump, relays

School: Shawano Community High School

Year: Senior