My name is Blake Hardison and I am a senior at the University of Dubuque where I am completing a Bachelor’s in Wellness and Exercise Science with a Business minor. I also have been a member of the Track and Field team during my time here where I have accomplished many things at the Division III national level. I believe this goes to show that I am a perfect advocate for my physical health having a direct impact on mental health. Throughout my track and field career as well as other sports growing up, I have come to realize that I am my best mentally when I am physically fit. Track and Field has served a significant role in my life for the last 10 years. I have faced many adversities, both physical and mental. I have also learned many strengths and weaknesses about myself through this sport and my teammates around me. This sport has taught me many useful lessons about mental health especially, because in my opinion track is 70% mindset, and the other 30% means nothing if you can’t control your thoughts and emotions. My collegiate Track and Field career has been a rollercoaster of ups and downs, but I have stayed positive through even the lowest of times. My physical health has been a direct reflection of my mental health, because I would not have made it this far if I were negative and pessimistic about everything. I will continue to be optimistic about this year and hopeful that I can achieve all that I wish to in my final year as a Spartan.
