Cato-Meridian High School senior Maggie Brown has committed to Slippery Rock University, where she will compete in NCAA Division II track and field as a multi-event athlete.

Brown’s running journey began during the summer of 2019 when she attended her first practice after some encouragement from a teammate.

“Elaina Williams convinced me to go to the summer practice. Coach Ellis asked me if I had been running, and I lied and said I had been. He sent me on a three-and-a-half-mile run my first time ever running and I died, I just did terrible. When I returned, he asked if that was my first time running, and I came clean and said yup. I just kind of stuck with it after that, I never stopped.”

For over six years, Brown has worked closely with Cato-Meridian’s coaching staff, transitioning from distance running to competing in multis and sprint events.

“Every coach has been a huge help, they have been so supportive, and I would not be anywhere near where I am today without them.”

Brown said the multi-event competitions are her favorite.

“You are constantly doing different things, so you never get bored or feel like stopping. Even if you struggle in one aspect of it on a given day, there is always something that you can succeed in.”

After visiting Slippery Rock during the recruitment process, Brown knew it was the right fit. She credits the campus’ serene beauty and the friendliness of future teammates and coaching staff for her decision.

In college, Brown plans to study environmental science before pursuing graduate studies in education. She would like to be a science teacher, though unsure of which science as of now.

“Definitely not physics though, sorry Coach Ellis,” she said.

Brown credits her family as a major inspiration throughout her athletic career, noting that many of them have participated in running sports themselves. She also noted teachers over the years that have helped her in various areas of her life.

“Mrs. Warner and Mrs. Krupa were among the first people who inspired me to teach. I also had Mr. St. Amour, who was phenomenal, and Mrs. Labeille, who helped me a lot with public speaking.”          

Looking ahead, Brown says she is excited for the new experiences college will bring.

“I am most looking forward to making a lot of new friends and meeting new people. I am also excited for the dining hall; they have great dining halls.”

Reflecting on her high school career, Brown said she is most proud of learning how to push through challenges.

“I am proud of my performances in the multi. Especially times where I do poorly one day, and the next I put everything aside and do great.”

As she looks ahead to the next chapter, Brown carries with her years of perseverance and a love for the sport that began with a single summer practice.