Abigail Roberts’ dedication to the sport of running goes unmatched.

“Ever since she joined the team last season, she has been a positive role model and leader. Her results speak for themselves (she has won six meets this season alone and is ranked among the top runners in the state), but what people may not see is the hard work she puts in on a daily basis,” Lake Region cross-country Coach Laura Pulito said. “Despite the pressure that comes with the breakout season she had last year, and the anxiety surrounding an injury that delayed her summer training, she has shown great resilience and an unyielding desire to succeed. Meanwhile, Abigail is just as invested in her teammates’ progress as her own; they look up to her and she serves as their #1 fan. The impact Abigail has made on the girls’ XC program at Lake Region is immeasurable. I wouldn’t be surprised if she inspires future generations to give the sport a shot.”

In recognition of her strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Abigail is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

Player of the Week Profile

Athlete: Abigail Roberts

Hometown: Casco

Year in School: Senior 

Parents: Heath & Elizabeth Roberts

Sports you Play: XC, Indoor Track, Outdoor Track

School Groups: National Honor Society

Hobbies: Running, hiking, walking Everest (my puppy), and basically anything outdoors!

Future plans: I am still unsure where I want to go to college, but I am leaning toward something in the athletic field, such as an athletic trainer or physical therapist. I am also interested in running in college. 

Q. What do you find most challenging about the sport? While the physical aspect is challenging, I would say that the mental part is what challenges me the most. 

Q. What goal did you set for yourself this season, and what will it take to reach that goal? I was coming off an injury for the start of the season, so I set the goal to learn how to love the sport of running in a healthy way again. We have some big meets coming up, so in order for me to reach this goal I just need to remember to have fun and relax a little. I believe that if I can do this, the results I want (times and placement) will follow. 

Q. What is your favorite sports memory and/or achievement (explain why)? My favorite sports memory is the trip that me, Coach Pulito, Coach M, Sam K., and Lizzie Brewer took to Rhode Island for the New England’s cross-country race. We made fun stops along the way, such as the zoo, and we stayed the night in a big hotel after getting fancy pasta from a fancy restaurant.

Q. How has sports made you a better person? Sports have made me a better person by challenging me in ways that I didn’t think were possible, both mentally and physically. They have shown me that I am capable of so much more than I thought was possible, and they have given me a sense of purpose in my life that comes with the success of hard work. 

Q. Name a teammate or coach you admire and explain why? Coach Pulito (my cross-country coach) has impacted my life more than she will ever know, and not just on the sports level. She has played a huge role in making me the person and athlete that I am today, and I respect her so, so much. She is one of my biggest inspirations in life, both as a runner and a person, and I am so thankful to have her in my life.