Kailey Skarbek is a senior on the Niles cross country team.

What has been one of your greatest accomplishments as an athlete?

KS: Winning medals at regionals in track.

What has been one of your biggest disappointments as an athlete?

KS: A knee injury that impacted my sophomore track season.

Who is a “hero” in your life and why?

KS: Both of my parents would have to be my heroes. They have taught my sister and I how to live a healthy, active lifestyle and have helped us become successful in school.

When are you the most nervous while you are competing?

KS: Right before a race, waiting for the gun to go off.

Describe an embarrassing athletic moment.

KS: My sophomore year I forgot to wear my uniform shorts to regionals. I did not realize this until we were at the starting line taking off our warmups. Luckily, a member of the boys team was there, so I borrowed his shorts.

How do you tend to work out/train when by yourself?

KS: I like to run around my neighborhood and then do strength conditioning afterward.

What other sport would you like to compete in if you were not playing yours?

KS: I would probably play golf, and if Niles had it, lacrosse.

Why are sports an important part of a high school experience?

KS: You make life-long friends and memories that you will remember forever.

How would you give away $50,000?

KS: I would give the money to individuals who want to start running programs for kids. It would be a perfect way to promote an active, healthy lifestyle.

If you could be the head coach of a team for a year, what team would you choose?

KS: Cross country. I think it would be fun to see the sport from a different perspective.

If I did not play sports, I would…?

KS: Be lazy, but have a lot more time for homework.

What is the most challenging thing for you to do in your sport?

KS: Sprinting at the end of a race. I try to sprint, but my legs just won’t move any faster.

If you could change one rule about your sport, what would it be?

KS: I would change the dress code. We should be able to have as many logos showing on the clothes underneath our uniform as long as the color matches the rest of the team.

What is the best compliment you have ever received?

KS: One of the best compliments I have ever received is when someone complimented me on my strong leadership.

What was the scariest thing you have had to do? Are you glad you did it?

KS: The scariest thing I ever did would have to be riding a rollercoaster. No, I am not glad I did it. I hate rollercoasters.

What was the last thing you saw someone do that really impressed you?

KS: A couple of weeks ago I watched a tough mudder race on television. The runners ran all throughout the night while completing obstacles.

What is your favorite hobby? Why?

KS: Baking. I love coming up with new recipes and it also helps me relax when I am stressed.

Choose one word to describe yourself:

KS: Driven.