I’ve had the privilege of working with a lot of standout and special athletes over the last two decades, but some really stick out. This girl is one of those athletes.
I first met Auna when she walked into GHS as a gangly and lengthy freshman. She was a stud soccer player playing basketball and she had a smile that lit up the gym–as you can see, she still does. Over the course of the last two track seasons, I’ve had the opportunity to coach, mentor and work with her in a different capacity, as her mindset and mental performance coach. Her mom likes to say that I speak her language. Every week, same time (7 am), same day, same place, we gather and we work. What a honor it’s been to build the connection and relationship that we have and to be a part of this human’s journey and walk.
This picture was taken yesterday, following our pre-state track meet session. This girl comes from good people—athletic, supportive and successful parents—and while her parents are respected members of the Bozeman medical community, I can think of no greater definition of success than raising good kids, and Auna is that. There’s no doubt that she’s got strong genetics, but the mind on this one is special. She’s like a sponge, soaking up what’s good, what’s helpful and what supports her goals, dreams and ambitions. And she is mentally tough, she’s developed a strong mindset and has fully embraced the power of perspective.
I’m so proud of this human and how she’s handled the setbacks and frustrations of navigating an injury that sidelined her for most of her senior season. She went into last week’s divisional track meet (on a redemption tour), running light and loose and trusting that if she controlled her controllables, she’d be willing and able to accept the results. Digging deep and leaning into a gnarly headwind, she ran steady, displaying both stamina and endurance and punched her ticket to state this week.
We’re cheering her on big-time tomorrow as she chases down dreams in Great Falls.
We’re so happy to celebrate you, Auna, and all of your hard work. In less than two weeks she graduates and begins her journey at the University of Utah, where she’s going to begin her studies as a physician assistant—watch out SLC, she’s coming. I can’t wait to watch her next chapter unfold.
Awfully grateful to be called “Coach” by this one.
WNbL,