Maryah Counts, a track and field athlete at Morehead State, has been leaving her mark on the sport since she first started running at the age of five.
Her dedication and love for the sport have taken her on a journey from her hometown of Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky, to Morehead State University, where she continues to pursue her dreams as a Division I athlete.
Running for Beechwood High School in Fort Mitchell, Counts achieved remarkable success. She was a member of the varsity track team for six years, during which she won three team state championships and numerous individual titles.
The experience of competing for Beechwood, a school known for its excellence in sports, was both intimidating and empowering for Counts. She credits her high school coach, Coach Meyers, for pushing her to be her best and helping her break numerous school records.
Counts says her time at Beechwood shaped her into the athlete she is today, and she is grateful for the support and guidance she received during those formative years.
"I couldn't have done anything I have done in those six years without Coach Meyers. Running at Beechwood definitely made me who I am today, and I thank them every day for what they have done for me," said Counts.
When it came time to choose a college, Counts had her sights set on a Division I program. She wanted to continue her running career at the highest level, and Morehead State offered her that opportunity.
Counts was impressed by the dedication of the coaching staff, particularly head coach Clay Dixon, who actively recruited her and made her feel wanted. The smaller size of the team also appealed to Counts, as she saw it as an opportunity to make a significant impact and help the team improve every day.
"I fell in love with track at such a young age that I knew I wanted to run in college, and I did not want to settle for anything less because I knew I could be great and go run at a Division I school," Counts expressed.
For Counts, the mental aspect of running is just as important as the physical. Before a race, she takes a moment to reflect on how far she has come since her high school days and the injuries she has overcome.
Listening to her favorite music helps calm her nerves and allows her to focus on the task at hand. By slowing her heart rate and breathing through the pre-race jitters, Counts finds her focus and gets ready to give her all on the track.
"I look back and just think about what I need to do to reach my goals and become better every day," Counts said. "If I can slow my heartbeat down before the race, my nerves will slowly calm themselves, and it will get me focused and locked in to run the race I'm about to run."
In addition to her passion for running, Counts has a love for photography. During her time in high school, she was involved in the yearbook and developed an appreciation for capturing moments through a lens.
Sports photography, in particular, holds a special place in her heart, as it allows her to capture the action and emotions of athletes in their element. Counts also enjoys taking senior and couple photos, as it gives her the opportunity to meet new people and explore her creative side.
"I love how I can be a part of those special moments," Counts said. "When I take these photos, it's very intricate, and you need to be able to know what is the right pose for a person."
When asked for advice to young athletes aspiring to compete at the Division I level, Counts emphasizes the importance of perseverance and self-promotion. She encourages athletes to never give up on their goals, no matter how out of reach they may seem.
Reaching out to coaches and getting their name out there is also crucial in gaining recognition and opportunities. Counts believes that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
"It may seem like your goals are out of reach, but no goal is ever out of reach. You can do anything you put your mind to. Keep pushing yourself when you run, try to get those times down so more people will know what you run and how good you are," Counts advises.
Throughout her journey, Counts has had the unwavering support of her parents. They have been there for her every step of the way, attending every meet and providing the support and nourishment she needs to perform at her best. Counts is grateful for their constant love and pride, regardless of her performance.
"No matter how good or how bad I do, they are always proud of me, and they are never mad or disappointed at me. That is what I love most about them," Counts shared.
As Counts continues her journey at Morehead State, she remains focused on her goals and strives to leave a lasting impact on the track and field program. With her dedication, passion, and the support of her family and coaches, she is determined to make her mark and achieve greatness both on and off the track.
