For most college freshmen student-athletes, their first season is about finding their rhythm. Building chemistry with new teammates. Dealing with tougher competition. Adjusting to the faster pace of collegiate athletics. For cross country athlete Abi Anderson, none of these have been a factor. Instead, she walked onto campus and quietly dominated.
In her debut year with the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater women’s cross country team, Anderson isn’t just keeping up, she’s leading the pace with grace and grit.
“I would say I’m more capable of more things than I thought,” Anderson said. “I figured I’d be kind of up there when I came into it, but I wasn’t expecting what I’ve done. It’s been exciting.”
That excitement is fueled by something Anderson didn’t have much of in high school, which is teammates who can match her pace.
“It’s been really good to have teammates who can run with me,” Anderson said. “They push me a lot and it’s really nice. It makes me better.”
One of her favorite team moments comes from their Monday runs at LaGrange, a hilly course about 20 minutes from campus.
“It’s just an easy run with the team,” Anderson said with a smile. “They really include me in all the conversations. I was nervous at first but they’ve always made me feel welcomed.”
That feeling of belonging has turned into confidence, and that confidence has turned into results. At the Tom Hoffman Invite earlier this season, Anderson placed second overall with a time of 23 minutes and 51 seconds.
Cross country is not a sprint, it’s a marathon. Being able to be not just physically strong, but mentally strong has been essential for Anderson’s success.
“Before my races, I’ve gotten a lot better at keeping my stress and anxiety in check,” Anderson said. “During a run, I just tell myself to stay positive and get to the next checkpoint. Even though it’s not the end, that’s what keeps me moving.”
Anderson’s biggest influences have always been close to home, coming from her father and her high school coach.
“My dad was my assistant coach in high school and he runs with me all the time,” Anderson said. “Brandon Miles, who’s now an assistant coach here, was my high school coach too. They both believe in me more than I believe in myself sometimes. They push me to do things I don’t always want to do, but I know it’s good for me.”
As a freshman making an immediate impact, Anderson admits there’s some pressure to consistently compete at a high level, but Anderson isn’t letting those expectations overshadow her joy for the sport.
“It’s very rewarding,” Anderson said. “There’s a bit of pressure moving forward, but this year I’m just excited to tag along and see what happens. In the next few years, it’s exciting to think about what I can accomplish both as part of the team and individually.”
With her undeniable drive, Anderson is showing that success as a freshman isn’t just about speed, it’s about heart. Anderson’s journey is just beginning, but her mindset already reflects that of a true champion. One who runs not just to win, but to grow.