Aduba was an All-American in the long and triple jump indoors (Prettysporty.com) |
1. After taking sixth in the long jump and fourth in the triple jump indoors, you already opened your season with a leap of 20-10.75 in the long jump at the Raleigh Relays which tied the Penn State school record. How do you feel heading into the heart of the outdoor season and what would you like to jump?
I feel really great going into the outdoor season. I have been feeling especially confident recently not necessarily because I opened with a personal record, but because I have had some good practices that indicate really good things. As far as marks go, hitting PR's are always fun, but I really want to get over that 21 foot barrier. In the triple jump as long as I continue to improve (especially if it is by as much as I did this indoor season) I won't complain.
2. As a short sprinter as well, what is your part in the relays and what kind of goals do you all have in mind?
I usually run the second leg on the sprint relay and my role has always been to get the stick around and help our team to a fast time. We have Connie Moore on anchor who is amazing with a stick in her hand, so I think we will be able to do some good things.
3. Also the reigning Big Ten triple jump champion, what are some of the accomplishments you are most proud of during your collegiate career so far?
The thing I am most proud of in my collegiate career is being able to break through in the triple jump last year. As a freshman I really struggled in the triple jump (I mean like 38ft struggling). Sophomore year my coach and I decided that those types of marks were way below my potential and it was time to start moving to the next level. During that outdoor season I jumped 41'5". I am most proud of that.
4. Penn State women's track and field Head Coach Beth Alford-Sullivan was recently named the Mid-Atlantic Region Coach of the Year by the United State's Track Coaches Association members. How was Alford-Sullivan and the rest of the staff helped you to be where you are today?
That recognition is a great honor for the whole coaching staff -- and well deserved. The coaches have been extremely supportive and all play an integral role in my career. My primary coach, Jeff McAuley, has been amazing. He knows when to integrate the right things at the right time and makes sure I never settle for anything less than my best.
5. You also have the luxury to train in one of the best indoor facilities in the nation. How much of an advantage is this for you and what's it like to be able to have a place like that to train in every day?
Our facility has been a HUGE advantage. Living in Pennsylvania at times it can seem like we get snow year round. Because of our facility, we never miss out on training days because of bad weather, we don't have to worry about injuries due to inadequate surfaces and we get to have plenty of home meets with good competition. I love our track and it's my favorite place to compete.
6. What are you currently pursuing your degree in and what would you like to do once your collegiate career is over?
Currently I am majoring in Broadcast Journalism with a Spanish minor. After I graduate I would love to live in Spain for awhile, that is of course only if my job on Sports Center falls through (haha).
7. Describe the college atmosphere and life on the campus of Penn State.
The first thing most people notice at Penn State is the school spirit. In fact, if you come during Homecoming the first thing you might notice are the students camping out overnight to guard our sacred Nittany Lion shrine.
8. Now that the outdoor season is well underway, what are some of your favorite venues to compete at and travel to?
My favorite meet is Sea Ray relays. I just LOVE escaping to warm weather when it is still cold here in State College. Also, there is always good competition and a few professional athletes that we get a chance to enjoy.
9. When stepping on the runway every weekend, how do you stay focused to jump your best every time?
For me, I just need to make sure that I get myself in a very focused concentrated mental state. As long as that happens and the intensity is high things usually work out well.
10. Can you explain to all of us who are not familiar with the jumps on what it takes every week to prepare yourself in practice to peak at the right time?
That is just mostly training, and my coach handles that. As long as training goes well things peaking at the right time takes care of itself.