University of Minnesota Athletics
Five Minutes with Kat Keller
10/16/2014 12:00:00 AM | Women's Track & Field
MINNEAPOLIS - Sprinter Kat Keller made her debut for the Gopher women's track & field team last season after redshirting her first year on campus. This year, she is looking to reach another gear as she starts her sophomore season.
Keller ran in 11 races during the 2014 indoor and outdoor seasons, competing in the 200-meter dash, 400-meter dash and the 4x400-meter relay. She set season-bests in the 200m and 400m at UC San Diego last year, with times of 25.68 and 57.74, respectively. Keller also finished second in the 400m at the Hamline Invitational during the outdoor season.
What is your favorite thing about Gopher track & field?
My favorite thing about Gopher track is being able to wear the "M" when I compete, knowing that I stand for more than just myself. I also love the team atmosphere and knowing you have over 50 other girls backing you up and cheering you on along the way.
What is your best memory with the team so far?
I've loved doing team bonding activities and hanging out together.
What's your proudest accomplishment in your track career so far?
When I first got to compete wearing the "M" after my redshirt freshman season.
What are your major and career goals?
My major is kinesiology, and I would like to be strength and conditioning coach for a college team.
How did you choose the University of Minnesota?
I liked the idea that it was a big school and you didn't walk around knowing everyone. When I visited, I loved being in the city and having so many different things to do. It was far enough away from my hometown of New Richmond, Wis., but close enough that if I wanted to go home, it wasn't a hassle. I also loved the team atmosphere and the possibilities the track team presented to me.
How did you first get into running?
Sports have always been a big part of my life and track was just one of those things I was good at. I started it in seventh grade and never really looked back. I never thought I would get to the place I am today, running for the college I love, but I did.
Were you involved in any other sports growing up?
I played soccer, basketball, and ran cross country, so I never concentrated on just one sport, which was one thing I loved growing up.
Do you have any pre-meet rituals or superstitions?
I have to wear the same clothes every meet, and I have to do the same routine while getting into blocks.
What do you think makes being a Gopher so special?
Knowing that I get to represent something way bigger than me and showing alumni and others what I am capable of is really special.
What are you most looking forward to about the 2014-15 season?
Getting a fresh start with no injury holding me back. I'm ready to see what I can accomplish.
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Players Mentioned
