In sudden death overtime, extra innings, or in tight races, athletes often become nervous or frustrated?maybe even cracking under the pressure.
Sometimes a different kind of competitor emerges, one who flourishes under stress. Cross country co-captain Jill Schweitzer '06 is one of those athletes.
In a sport with immense individual pressure, where one bad race can hurt the overall standing of the team, inner strength is invaluable.
"Running has a lot of highs and lows, but Jill is one of the best I've ever seen at staying emotionally strong all the time," said coach Peter Slovenski, who also is the head track coach. This is high praise from a someone who has spent 18 years coaching at Bowdoin.
Schweitzer's leadership shows both in and out of practice.
"Jill is an excellent runner, but she is even better at supporting other runners," Slovenski added. "The team is much better because of her encouragement and advice."
Schweitzer tried lots of sports at Ridgefield High School in Connecticut, such as soccer, field hockey and basketball, before settling on running. One season of track was all it took for Schweitzer.
"I did outdoor track and got hooked," she explained. "I then converted to all three seasons of running my sophomore year."
At Bowdoin, she has run cross country all four years.
Schweitzer, the only senior on the team, does not consider races to be her most important accomplishment as a team member.
"My contributions have been more as a leader and teammate than as a valuable member of the team for scoring and success," she said.
The team has been very successful this year. Schweitzer has taken advantage of leading and building a young squad this season.
"She goes above and beyond in attempts to make cross country a fun and exciting experience for the team," co-captain Jamie Knight '07 said. "Everything from inspiring readings at team meetings and late-night good luck wishes by email, to decorations in the locker room show that Jill truly wants Bowdoin's runners to feel they are part of something special."
Few had high expectations for such a young team; however, in part because of Schweitzer's leadership and encouragement. the team has had a strong season.
The team placed first in three of its five races and second in its last race, the Maine State Meet at Colby.
"We've been improving continually throughout the season, and at NESCACs this weekend, I bet we can surprise a lot of people," Schweitzer said. "We have a lot of potential."
The team will look to Schweitzer for confidence and advice at the NESCAC meet at Wesleyan.
"Jill is terrific at talking to runners who need the most support and helping them to find some good news or humor in the race results," Slovenski said. "Jill makes us a better team through her contributions as a student, runner, and team leader."