Kingsley Maduka, senior,boys cross-country
“Kingsley Maduka is a Senior co-captain of the UHS Boys Cross Country Team and is competing in his third year of cross-country.He has led the Farmers in every meet he has taken part in this season, both quad meets and invitationals. He won a medal at the Garret Mountain Invitational on Sept. 28, and is looking forward to leading his team in the Union County Conference and UCC Championship meets. Kingsley sets the tone at practice with his work ethic. He leads by example, always giving his all. Maduka broke 2:00 in the 800 in track, and is expected to be the top middle distance runner for Union this winter and spring.”
— Union cross-country, coach Don Erdman
Coach Erdman mentioned your personal record of breaking two minutes in the 800. Are there any other personal goals you have for the cross-country season?
Ever since our summer practices started in July, I’ve been working hard to break 19 minutes. So far my best time was 19:04 so there’s definitely progress and I’m on track to success.
Besides cross-country, you run in both individual and relay events, and at several distances. Do you have a favorite event?
My favorite event has to be the 800-meter race. It’s such a competitive race and that makes it very thrilling/exciting. What I love most about it is that it’s a fight for will and who wants it more. Yes, it can be very painful, but I’m doing what I love and that makes me stronger than ever.
We noticed you competed in the Penn Relays this past spring. What was that experience like?
Competing at Penn Relays was like a dream come true. Stepping onto that track surrounded by millions of people was mind-blowing. I honestly felt like I was in the Olympics and I really appreciate the opportunity to compete with some of the fastest teams in the world. My team and I got a personal record in our 4x400m race so that made the experience even better.
How has the experience as a senior co-captain been this season?
Since I’ve been captain of this cross-country team, there has been nothing but positivity. Being in this position has built my leadership skills and has taught me to always set a good example for those who look up to me. In fact, it’s almost as if the whole team is full of captains. Everybody lifts each other up and pushes each other to reach success. That’s all I can ask for in my teammates, and that itself makes this experience memorable.
How has it been getting back into the school year?
Well, first I am still trying to process the fact I’m a senior. These four years have gone by incredibly fast. At the same time, I’m excited for this school year. My goal is to make the best out of it and take advantage of every opportunity I get. So far I have all “A”s in my classes and plan to keep it that way.
Do you have a favorite subject? Why that one?
My favorite subject has to be science, specifically biology. Ever since middle school I’ve always done well in my science classes and that eventually brought out the love I have for it. Biology is the study of living organisms and the life around us so what’s better than learning more and more about how your own body and the things around you work?
What are your long-range plans following graduation?
After I graduate highschool I plan on attending a four-year college to get my bachelor’s degree and then medical school. I’m really passionate about pursuing a career in medicine. It all goes back to my love for helping people and putting a smile on everyone’s face. I also love science/biology so becoming a doctor is my main goal.