Danielle Matteo, a senior from Valley Stream, NY took home first place in the 5,000 meter run. Matteo, who is a big part of the Adelphi team, posted a personal best time of 18:25.68. Matteo says her key to success was simple: she wanted it more.
“Two laps to go UMass Lowell’s girl took the lead and my coached yelled “don’t make a move…sit” so I sat, followed around the turn with a lap to go the bell rang and I took off. All I could hear is someone yell, “who wants it more!” and I went for it. All that went through my head that race was the workout we did that Monday, 20x400 with 60 second rest all under 81 seconds. If I could do that this is nothing. I wanted it!”
Never questioning her ability, Matteo’s mindset was nervous but then reminded herself that it was like any other day.
“I told myself it’s like any other day, just go into it as it’s a hard workout, clear my mind and do what I know how to do...just run, the work is already put in, just be me.
It was not only Matteo who found success at the championships, but also her teammates came away with triumph. The distance medley relay team captured an exciting come from behind victory setting a meet record, while many other girls showed their desire to succeed as they raced with passion to do their personal best.
It was a great weekend for this team, finishing sixth out of sixteen, as they showed that teamwork is what matters the most. Matteo has a lot to be pleased about.
“I am so proud of all my teammates, coming into a new and more challenging conference. We are all there for each other through the ups and downs. I think that’s what makes us strong. I am always ready to help motivate and push no matter how I am feeling. I just always have to have a positive attitude even if it is going to be a rough workout or a hard day.”
Women athletes at Adelphi University make us proud once again.
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