Blue Devil Athlete Spotlight: Jaila Bergeron (Cross Country)

 

A chance announcement over the intercom during her freshman year introduced Jaila Bergeron to cross country. She has not looked back since. “One day, on the school announcements, it was mentioned the cross country team needed more members,” said Bergeron. “I decided to join, and I’ve been on the team ever since.” After moving to Leominster during middle school, Bergeron, now a junior at Leominster High School, found a sport she quickly grew to enjoy, embracing the running, coaches, and camaraderie that come with cross country. “Running helps with your heart, lungs and just lets you have a better, healthier body overall,” said Bergeron. “I like how everyone on the team is so supportive of each other. With that constant support, it has led me to form great bonds with some of my best friends.” “Jaila joined cross country freshman year,” said cross country head coach Karen Marino. “Since that time, she has made so much progress as a runner and athlete. She has become one of the top runners on the team. She always amazes me when she continues to push herself to run outside of her comfort zone.” Bergeron credits Marino with helping her develop the mental toughness necessary for cross country. “Coach Marino always says cross country is more about mindset than physical ability,” she said. As she looks ahead to her senior year and beyond, Bergeron hopes to continue both her education and her running career. “I definitely see myself going to college, with hopes of being in the medical field for anesthesiology,” Bergeron said. “I would love to keep running after high school, whether it is for a college team or for a club.” Bergeron also runs indoor and outdoor track for LHS. Away from athletics, she enjoys drawing and painting. “My favorite class is art with Mrs. Romhanyi,” Bergeron said. “She is always having such a great day and seems so happy.” What began with a simple announcement has developed into a successful cross country career for Bergeron, who has continued to grow as both a runner and teammate. “I can't wait to see what she is able to accomplish,” said Marino. “She is a great role model for her peers.”