Athlete Spotlight: James Wood cross country runner Sarah Moss

James Wood High School 18-year-old senior

Sport: Cross country

Parents: Julia and John Moss

Hometown: Winchester

What do you love about cross country: The relationships I’ve built with people on the team. We have a really good atmosphere and we’re all very close.

Most memorable moment in cross country: When we made it to states last year. (James Wood placed seventh in Class 4.) We put a lot of work into getting there, and we were all really proud of ourselves when we got to that point.

Most embarrassing moment in cross country: Probably looking back at all the pictures during the races. Some of the team moms take pictures of us and then we look at them together, and it’s always funny. We see some not always flattering pictures [because of facial expressions].

Most difficult moment in cross country: Just the races in general. Mentally getting through them and pushing yourself to finish.

Three people you can have dinner with, dead or alive: Taylor Swift; I’ve grown up listening to her. Just watching her blow up and be so successful is inspiring. My grandparents Jack and Marie (nickname Rick); they have a lot of stories. They’ve done so much throughout their life. They always have so many interesting things to say.

Biggest athletic influences: All the coaches I’ve had. My middle school coach was Lorenzo Lara at Sacred Heart. He was the first major coach I had, and he definitely got me to love running more than I ever have before. He gave me a lot of insight on how to be a good runner and to love the sport. And then in high school, [head coach Matthew] Lofton and [assistant] coach Tyler Cox-Philyaw have also been very encouraging and supportive.

Favorite teacher: [James Wood’s] Ms. [Deborah] Grumbacher. She was my AP U.S. History teacher my junior year. She taught more than just history. She taught how to be a good student.

Favorite team: Liverpool F.C.

Favorite movie: “Mamma Mia!”

Favorite TV show: “The 100”

Favorite song: “Seven” by Taylor Swift

Favorite food: Sushi

Worst thing you’ve ever eaten: Wasabi

Plans after high school: I am trying to go to a four-year university to study aviation and become a pilot. I just love the idea of flying and traveling, and I love math and science.

— Compiled by Robert Niedzwiecki