More Than the Finish Line

SEATTLE- The finish line is only part of the story. For senior cross country captain Colin McKeon, playing sports at O’Dea has been about much more than winning races. Over the past four years, sports have helped him build better habits, learn from challenges, and become a better person both on and off the course.

When McKeon first started playing sports for O’Dea, he realized that getting better required work outside of practice. He had to make changes to his everyday life if he wanted to reach his goals.

The habits that have helped McKeon become more disciplined include “eating healthier, getting 8 hours of sleep, going to the gym or on a run on my days off,” McKeon said. These habits have helped him take better care of himself.

Another important lesson McKeon has learned is to keep fighting, even when things get difficult. Whether he is struggling during a race or dealing with challenges outside of sports, he has learned to keep pushing and give his best effort. This mindset has helped him become more determined in other parts of his life.

His teammates and coaches have also played a major role in shaping who he is today. Being part of a team has taught him leadership, communication, and the importance of supporting others. Through injuries and heartbreaking losses, he has learned that sports are about more than the final result.

As McKeon explained, “At O’Dea, the brotherhood is just as important as winning or losing.”

As a senior captain, McKeon can take these lessons with him beyond high school. Looking back on his experience, he believes O’Dea athletics have made a lasting impact on the person he has become.

“O’Dea sports have made me a better person, not only for myself but for others as well,” he reflected.