By Ella Lokier
Staff Writer
Senior Daila Frias was named California’s 2021 Player of the Year for Girls Cross Country by Gatorade.
Frias has been part of the Costa cross country team since her freshman year and just concluded her last season. Frias runs every day except Sunday, and runs 35 to 40 miles per week.
“I was very excited when I found out I had won the Gatorade Player of the Year,” Frias said. “I know the people who came before me and won this have such a legacy, and it feels great to add to that list of athletes. This means so much to me, not only as an athlete, but as a student who works hard balancing school and athletics.”
Throughout her cross country career, Frias has broken multiple school, personal and course records, and placed first in this year’s Division II state championships, among other wins.
“It feels great being able to accomplish everything I have,” Frias said. “I never would have expected any of this when I first joined track freshman year, and now being where I am today, I am so proud and ecstatic to be able to accomplish so much. I put so much trust into my coaches, and I think all of the training and hard work has definitely paid off.”
Frias has committed to Duke University to continue her career and legacy in Division I cross country and track. According to Frias, anyone who wants to start running should just go for it.
“The biggest advice I could give is to stay consistent,” Frias said. “You have to trust the process and know that your training and dedication will slowly start to pay off.
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