09/26/2025
Our Wildcat of the Week shows what it means to work hard, dream big, and represent with heart. For Karter Koon, running has become more than just a way to stay in shape for soccer—it’s a way to challenge herself and grow with her teammates. “My main sport is soccer, so I needed a sport that helped keep me in shape year round,” she explained. What makes the experience most meaningful for Karter is the time spent alongside her teammates. “Being able to be out there with my girls and spending time with them, and being able to race with them and say I did it with the team,” she shared. Karter credits her friends as a source of strength and motivation, saying, “Having friends along the way, they help pick me up. They’re my strength and my rock. Just like Jesus is my rock.” Even during tough moments on the course, she keeps herself focused with a simple mindset: “Remembering that it will all be done after 3.1 miles.” Her advice for anyone looking to improve is straightforward: “Never give up, stay at it, and keep working.” Beyond running, Karter has learned valuable lessons about teamwork and dedication. “To get to know people outside of the sport, and bond with the team outside of practices,” she said, adding that the discipline she practices in sports has carried over to school and other areas of her life. When asked to sum up her experience in one word, Karter chooses coolio. “I use coolio because not only am I coolio, but we run coolio.” Her energy, determination, and team spirit make her a standout Wildcat.