ATHLETE OF THE WEEK, Sonia Diaz, Hazleton Area track and field

Hazleton Area freshman Sonia Diaz had quite the debut at the Wyoming Valley Conference Track and Field Championships where she left Wilkes-Barre Area's Wolfpack Stadium with four gold medals. She won the 100 (12.50) and 200 (26.08), was the anchor on the gold-medal 400 relay team, and also was a member of the winning 1,600 relay team.

Year: Freshman

Hometown: McAdoo.

Age: 15.

What was it like entering your first WVC Championships. Were there any types of nerves?: I always have nerves, and I'm always a little scared. My friends were there, so they kind of uplifted that nervousness right off of me. We started to giggle and just have fun. From there, the nerves just went away and I felt free.

You won four gold medals. You had to be extremely happy with the way you performed that day: I knew I was going to do good. My legs felt really good entering the meet, so I knew that I was going to do good. But I didn't know that I was going to do that good. I never thought I was going to get four gold medals.

Were you surprised?: I was surprised, but I was really proud of myself and the entire team.

You won both the 100 and 200, and they were two races you really controlled: How did they feel?: My 100 felt really good, and I was proud of myself with the way I was able to run; getting my new PR and getting first. I am nervous going into districts because some of the girls' times are pretty fast, and it's going to push me. I already ran the state-qualifying time once, and I know that I can do it again.

What does it mean to win a medal with your teammates in the relays?: It's fun. For the 4×1, I am the anchor, and in some races, it all comes down to the last person that is running. My teammates are always picking me up, and keep telling me that we got this as a team. We succeeded and did great.

What are some of your hobbies outside of school?: I like to crochet. I like to do the normal girlie things, like my feet, my toes, my nails and my hair. I also like to sleep.

How would you describe yourself?: I feel like I am pretty bubbly, and I feel like I make friends pretty easily. I am always there if you need me. I am also respectful.

Favorite food: Cheese fries.

Dream vacation: Bora Bora.

Favorite school subject: English.

Favorite TV show: The Flash.

Favorite movie: "The Spy Kids" series.

Favorite song: "Nights," by Frank Ocean.

Favorite athlete: Sha'Carri Richardson.

Favorite team: Philadelphia Eagles.

Funniest teammate: I think I am. I am the person that's always making everyone giggle.

Any pre-meet rituals: I always pray and listen to "Nights" by Frank Ocean.

Role model: My grandma.

Favorite event: The 100. and with the relays, I like the 4×1.

Future plans: I would like to go to school for track, and maybe get a track scholarship. I am also thinking about going into the Navy.

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