Michael Dudzic

Why I attend Mullen: For me, I’d say it’s the community. I shadowed at Mullen and fell in love immediately. I looked at other schools, but none had the tightknit community Mullen had and with the fantastic education it was just perfect for me.

The best thing about my sport: I like the complexity (of running). If you want to be successful in running, you have to put in a lot of running when no one’s watching, you have to put in 50-60 miles per week over the summer. For me, it’s soothing, but also requires dedication. I just love it.

In my future: I would love to run (on the NCAA level). I’m trying to put out a lot of fast times this year (and will participate in the Nike Regionals in November).

Pre-match ritual: . I only do one thing. About 10 minutes before the gun goes off, I go away and just try to calm my mind and try to be at peace, just reflect on how special it is to be racing. It usually allows me to run well.

Favorite college team: Duke, I like (its) football and especially like basketball. My dad (Paul) went there. I also like the Naval Academy. It’s fun to watch.

Why I run: . I think I run for a combination of both the loner aspect, but also the team aspect. And when you put in so many miles with different kids, you develop deep bonds, even though some kids have different uniforms. You’re still running with them. I think it’s the best sport and the purest sport ever. And the history of running is incredible.