Jacob Dove remembers how going out for cross country his freshman year was a challenge, especially when he was playing soccer at the same time.

At that time, soccer was his first love for the selfless athlete.

“There were a lot of soccer players who signed up for it,” stated the senior. “Most of them didn’t stick with it, but I decided to stick it out. I tried to make as many cross country meets as I could.

“But there was something about it (cross country). I always like to run, and there was the situation of competing against yourself.”

Dove competed his sophomore year, but he put it on the shelf his junior year. In turn, though, cross country opened the door for Dove’s track career.

Since his freshman season, Dove has been perfecting his craft at running the 400, and he has become a pivotal member of the team’s successful 4 x 100 and 4 x 800 relay teams. Dove was the runner-up in the 400 at both leagues and districts last year. He also has run the 200 and 800.

Yet, like he has with his cross country career, Dove will continue to craft his work. His personal best is a 50.93 in the 400, at one time, second best in the Colonial League this season. He truly pushes it to the limit.

“I want to run three events this year at leagues, and it will be the 200 or 800,” said Dove. “It feels good to run the 400. That’s probably my best event.

“There have been times when I ran so hard and I’m so hyped up that I had to throw up afterward. But I have worked on it, and I’m anxious to see what I can do in leagues and districts.

Yet, it is about keeping it in the proper perspective

“Still, it is about being humble, and not let it get to your head,” he added. “I want to do what I can for the team.”

Head coach Kyle Rusnock has been pleased with Dove’s contributions on and off the field.

“Jacob is the ultimate athlete and team member,” beamed Rusnock. “He will do anything for the betterment of the team. Jacob is one of if not the best 400 runner in the area. He medaled as a sophomore and is ready to take the next step to make it to the state meet.

“He also does very well with the relays.”

Dove credits his success to his mother Rachel Johnson and stepfather Andrew Johnson. He plans to pursue a career in computer science and plans to run track in college. Dove admits that he has always been a fan of cellphones, and would like to explore them in the future.

He loves to keep busy and manage his time, as Dove has held a part-time job ever since he has been able to work. He currently works at Olive Garden and has worked at FedEx.

“I always need to be doing something,” he stressed. “I have learned to structure my time, and get the best out of everything every day.”

Dove certainly has been doing his best for the Roughies’ track team.