By Jacelyn Hamamoto

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Since starting cross country, Senior Jakob Dewald has grown into an exemplary athlete, placing in competitions throughout all four years of his high school career. As a result of his own perseverance and willpower, he stresses to fellow runners to never give up.

“It actually feels really good to accomplish something. At the end of the day it’s just all about trying your best and having fun, that’s it,” said Dewald.

Dewald has been driven by a passion for athletics since he was small, despite any injuries he incurred. “As a kid I had always wanted to become an athlete. And I just kept trying and trying so it’s pretty natural for me,” Dewald said. “I used to go to the hospital a lot, like I would break my leg and all that stuff, so I would always be the one to get back and never (be) giving up on my dreams.”

Not only did the desire for success push Dewald to achieve his goals, but the help of his father also aided in his determination “My dad had a lot to do with it. He used to do a lot of sports too,” said Jakob Dewald. Dewald’s father, Steve Dewald, added “I never pushed Jakob to do sports as a child, he was always intrinsically motivated to do athletics. He always wanted to run every morning, he would wake up and go for a run and instead of me inspiring him, he inspired me.”

Jakob Dewald has been competing in cross country competitions, and has won various medals throughout his high school years. “I went to states all four years, so even as a freshman I went to states. My junior year, I placed ninth at states, and this past year, my senior year, I placed seventh.” Head Coach Nathan Aragaki added,  “Any time a public school kid can place at states, it is quite an accomplishment.”

It wasn’t easy for Dewald to stay on top of his game from the beginning to the end. “Early on, he would would try sometimes, but the last couple of years at practice he would go until he was ready to drop,” Aragaki said. “Basically, he went from thinking he could do well but not being committed, to knowing he could do well if he committed himself.”

Though balancing three sports, school and a social life can be hectic, Dewald stepped up his work ethic. “It takes a lot of time, like I want to become a pro, so with that and balancing colleges and stuff and applications, you just have to take time to go through it. It’s all about willpower at the end of the day.” said Jakob Dewald.

While maintaining his busy schedule, Jakob Dewald tries to motivate his peers to do their best. “I think that everyone can be self-led. I do lead them in the right direction to be self-led.” said Jakob Dewald. “He leads by example and everyone likes him because he is friendly and has a good sense of humor. Also he encourages his teammates to always do better,” said Aragaki.

Jakob Dewald has balanced his priorities and goals and has become an example to all athletes and students.