As the academic year comes to a close and the track and field season is nearing an end, so do the careers of 27 seniors. The Oklahoma track and field teams head to Lawrence, Kan., this weekend to compete in the Big 12 Championship, and several Sooner seniors took some time to reflect on what competing at the Big 12 one last time will mean to them.
"Going into Big 12, I am very excited! Four years ago, when I competed as a freshman, we finished last and in 2016, we finished second. This year, I believe we have the people to do something even bigger. It is so special to be a part of the progress our team has made in establishing a strong women's program." - Elena Arriaza
"This being my last Big 12 meet will definitely be hard and emotional, but as an athlete, I have to put the emotions aside and compete hard for myself and teammates." - Payton Baker
"I'm really excited to run at Big 12. The Big 12 meet have always held a special place in my heart and I always get excited to run, whether it's indoor, outdoor, or cross country. It's a meet where all the schools and competitors go all in and put everything on the line to win. I'm excited for the opportunity and the challenge it presents." - Dylan Blankenbaker
"It's a bittersweet feeling. I'm happy to be competing alongside my teammates, but at the same time, sad that my collegiate career is almost over. I'm determined to make my last Big 12 count!" - Bianca Brazil
"I want to enjoy every bit of the experience that I can. I just want to have fun competing beside my friends and teammates for the last time on this stage." - Jacob Burcham
"It is bittersweet. I feel blessed to be able to represent the University of Oklahoma, and I will never forget the memories and the lifelong friendships I've created here. I'm just ready to compete alongside my amazing teammates." - Daunicia Demerson
"It is bittersweet. I have a feeling that this one is going to be a weekend to remember, but I'm sad that it is almost over. I can't wait to go to battle with my team for one of the last times!" - Olivia Haggerty
"My eligibility is sponged, but the principles I've learned from this program will live with me forever." - Everette Favor
"This meet for me is really about the team. For the past three years, my focus has been on me and how I perform, and my attitude would reflect that. But this year, I plan on supporting my team to the fullest, regardless of my performance." -Garrison LeRock
"I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to represent OU and my team at my fourth Big 12 Outdoor Track and Field Championship. The Big 12 meet is always a special time for the team as we fight together toward one goal. I love the spirit of camaraderie and tenacious competitiveness that is present at championship meets. I am so blessed to be able to run one last Big 12 meet." - Kelsey McKee
"As a senior, this is the last time to leave your legacy in the Big 12. Whether you're breaking a meet record, winning an event or just giving your competition a good fight, this is your last time to go out and compete in a team-oriented meet." - Hayden McClain
"It is going to be fun. The outdoor Big 12 meet is the start of the end of the season. It will start championship season, and it usually brings out a lot of emotions with competitors. It is going to be exciting, and I am ready to go!" - Charles Nguyen
"Competing at Big 12 has always been an exciting time. After following competitor's marks all season, it is finally time to go head-to-head with them when the stakes are high. As the only javelin thrower on the team this year, I really want to step up and get a good mark that can set the tone for the rest of the team. I really enjoy the fact that javelin is on Friday, that way I can get after it right off the bat and then cheer on my teammates the rest of the weekend. With this being my last Big 12 meet, I will certainly take the time to really appreciate the opportunity to represent OU and compete against some of the best athletes in the country." -T.J. Noonan
"I feel that this year is our year. We have balanced athleticism across the board." - Daye Shon Roberson
"In order to accomplish greatness, we must believe we are just that. And I believe we are!" - Baileh Simms
"I'm not focusing my thoughts on competing at Big 12 for the last time. To me, this is another opportunity to compete for my team. Last year, we came so close to winning a conference title. This year, I want to help my team achieve this goal. I will compete in both the 10k and 5k to help score some points for my team. My focus for this meet will be to enjoy every moment and to take care of business as usual. Regardless of the result, I'm so thankful to be a part of this amazing program. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to compete at Big 12 for another year." - Brittany Tretbar
