Jeff Moeller, Sports Correspondent

Derek Feske played three sports, but he wanted to try something new.

During his freshman year at Richmond Hill, Feske played football, and he previously played baseball and wrestled in elementary school.

Still, this year, Feske longed for change. It was time he tried running, not just for training, but for cross country and track.

“Cross country sounded fun, and I’ve always liked to run,” explained Feske. “I decided to give it a shot.

“When I was younger, running was mostly just part of the conditioning for sports like football and baseball. I always enjoyed the running aspect of those sports, but it wasn’t until I joined cross country that I experienced it as its own competitive sport.”

When he started running cross country in the fall, Feske discovered that he had to make some adjustments.

“My biggest obstacle was learning how to push and run with other people,” said Feske. “It took me around two months until I realized how much I could really push my limits.”

Feske hit his personal best and season best in cross country of 16:59, which he ran at the ASICS Invitational in early October.

In track, Feske ran the 800, 1,600, and was a leg of the Wildcat’s 4 x 800 relay team. His PB for the 1,600 is 4:33, and he has clocked a PB of 1:59 in the 800.

As he gained confidence during cross country, Feske’s performances began to excel in mid-to late September.

“After a bit of a slow start at the very beginning of my first cross country season, things really clicked for me at the Wingfoot XC Classic,” stressed Feske. “I had a breakout race there, placing fourth overall in the JV Championship, and that was the exact moment I realized I could actually be good at this sport. From there, it was all about building confidence.”

In track, Feske started his season with a 4;35 in the 1,600 and a 2;15 in the 800. But through his perseverance, Feske lowered his times and was part of the 4 x 800 relay that finished fourth in the state, gaining him all-state recognition.

“Through hard work and pushing through the season, I was able to shave time off my mile and completely drop my 800m time down to a 1:59 by the region meet,”stated Feske. “I finished the season strong with a team performance in the 4x800 at the Georgia 6A State Meet.”

Feske credits his early success to the constant guidance of his parents, Brent and Valerie. He also has appreciated his other pipelines that funnel positive thoughts toward him.

“I wouldn’t say it was one specific person— everyone has played a part,” said Feske of those who have encouraged him. “ My mom and dad definitely influenced me to start in the first place, and have supported me through my entire career. My friends and coaches have also been a huge influence, constantly pushing me to get better every day.”

Head coach Levi Sybert praised Feske for his steady improvements throughout the year.

“He is a first time athlete this year and had a great year from start to finish,” said Sybert.”He started the first portion of cross country on the B squad and then moved up to a squad really quick to become an allstate athlete on his first season in the 4 x 800.

“He showed tremendous dedication and a work ethic all in one year. It was pretty phenomenal. There aren’t too many sophomores who come out and accomplish that much in one season.”