Alfred State College freshman cross country runner John Sweeney (Barker) has had a solid start to the season as he has been the top male finisher in each of the Pioneers first three races. Sweeney and the Pioneers are currently ranked #3 in the latest NJCAA Division III poll. He is the latest athlete to sit down and answer the sports information department's Q&A.
How is cross-country different from other sports? I think that cross country is different from other sports because if you are not mentally prepared for a race you will not compete to the best of your ability. You can never under estimate anyone or any course.
Take us through your pre-race preparation, both mental and physical. My pre-race preparation generally consists of drinking a lot of water, running about a 5 to 10 minute warm up and then doing a variety of stretches. I also clear my head of everything and focus on the course.
Since cross-country is measured both by team scoring and individual times, how do you separate the two? Which is more important to you? Why? I believe that both individual times and team scoring are important in having a successful season. They both rank about the same to me because in order to compete at regionals and nationals you must have a core group of guys that are willing to train and compete to their best ability every day. It does not matter whether you're the 1st or 7th runner on the team.
What makes Alfred State College's cross country course different from other courses? The hills on Alfred State's cross country course definitely separate the course from other courses that I have ran so far this year.
Who has been your biggest influence? My biggest influence would have to be my Uncle John.
How do you deal with the pressure of meeting both athletic and academic responsibilities? I really don't have much pressure between my athletic and academic responsibilities. Generally I try not to let pressure affect me but there are times when it does and I will just go for a nice long run. For me running is a good way to relieve any type of stress.
What was most appealing about coming to Alfred State? The Agricultural Science program and the professors within the program
What are your plans after Alfred State? My future plans after I graduate from Alfred State are to get a job in the agricultural field and to stay involved with 4-H.
Name three people, past or present, that you would like to meet. Michael Jordon, Mike Krzyzewski, Kenny Chesney
Quick Hits:
Favorite pizza topping: sausage
Favorite food: Steak
Favorite color: Green
Favorite television show: Survivor
Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii
Favorite place to relax: The beach