Editor's note: Every Wednesday throughout the fall, we'll catch up with track and field student-athletes and coaches for five questions.
Q: With a season under your belt, how did you approach the summer as well as fall training?
Dennis: Well, the season didn't go too well for me, or as good as I planned it to be last season. I'm hungrier and more determined this year, because I know what I need to get done. I'm more focused. Especially with the newcomers coming in. I want to lead and be a good example to them and have a good season. I just stay focused and stay hungry, so that way we can win an ACC championship."
Q: What are you looking forward to the most in the upcoming indoor and outdoor seasons?
Dennis: I'm looking forward to the competition. I know I was feeling a little bit pressured last year at the meets because I was a newbie, but I know what's at stake for me this year. The competition is what I'm really looking forward to.
Q: What do you do to relax during a long track season?
Dennis: I try to get some sleep for sure. I make sure I eat right, stay hydrated and I look up some track videos to help me get my blocks right, or my starts right. It keeps me reassured, keeps reminding me this is why I'm here, this is why they brought me here. That kind of eases my mind when I have off days."
Q: Do you see any of the freshman playing a role in the indoor and outdoor seasons?
Dennis: Of course. All of them are very motivated. That's what I realized when they came here and I'm really excited for them. This is their first year competing at the collegiate level and a lot of them have set goals for themselves and are ready to compete. I already know they're going to put down the points that's necessary for the ACC Championships.
Q: Have you tried to take any of the freshman under your wing?
Dennis: I try to keep them motivated especially during practice. I didn't take a specific person under my wing, but during practice I try to keep them motivated. Let them know that it's okay to fall short sometimes. That was one of the things that was keeping me back last year. I had some people, but knowing that you're doing good, or that progressing good is one of the main things to keep people motivated. I just try to encourage them in practice and make sure they're doing the right things outside of practice.
