It’s a lazy Saturday evening after a long day of coverage at a cross country meet followed by some perusing of meet results from around the state. Then it was on to watching some college football before dozing off into a nap for several hours. Upon waking up there would be a message on the Bat phone from superstar senior Madeline Perez of Glen Ellyn (Glenbard West). The first thoughts running through my head were ‘uh oh I hope everything is alright.’ In this day and age with numerous streams of media access available to young people, the psyche can be pulled in many different ways.
The call was returned back to Madeline and the discussion begins…
“It’s been bothering [what’s been said] about me,” said Perez referring to the speculation about her absence this cross country season. Madeline wanted to clear up any confusion out there. So the interview continues and she has the platform.
So, what’s been going on with you?
I have been training hard but unfortunately for a while it could not include running. I am doing well now as I have begun building my base again but it has only been for about a couple of weeks. My track season was extended out to New Balance Outdoor but then I needed some time off so I took a few weeks before I started my summer running. 
It only lasted for just over three weeks when I started to feel tightness so I stopped running hoping it would heal quickly. The good news is it did heal and feels much better now. The bad news is it took six weeks.
When are you going to debut your season?
I can’t wait to race. It is one of my favorite things to do but I am not sure when I am going to start yet. I have just started running after a long layoff so I am easing back into it. I want to ensure I am 100% healthy before I push too hard.
Will you compete in the upcoming Wheaton North Falcon Classic?
No. I will be out of town again for a college visit.
Where to?
Ha! Ha! Tony, you will be among the first to know when I make my final choice.
Any clues?
Big 10, Pac-12, Big 12, SEC…
Gee thanks!
Ha! Ha!
What type of training are you doing now?
Is it fair to assume you are holding your own?
Oh yes very much so!
What about Nike Cross Nationals and the post-season?
I’m not sure. We will have to see how everything goes first. It will be one race at a time. I am so excited about competing again.
Well, I want to wish you well this season and beyond Maddie. I am looking forward to seeing you compete this season as well as your fans… whenever that will be.
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