It was quite a first year at Mansfield University for Troy graduate Alyssa Parks. 

Parks started the year running cross-country for the Mounties, making varsity to compete in the PSAC Championships and Atlantic Regional Championships. Then hit her stride in track and field, where she was named the Spring Athlete of the Year for earning a medal at the PSAC Championships in the Heptathlon.

"Doing multiple sports while balancing academics in college is definitely challenging, but it's also really rewarding," Parks said. "It means being super organized with my time, often studying on buses or late at night, and always communicating with my professors and coaches. It teaches you a lot about time management and discipline."

The heptathlon features seven events - 100 hurdles, high jump, shot put, 200 dash, long jump, javelin throw, and the 800.

It's done over two days with four events on day one, and three on day two.

"Training for the heptathlon is a constant balancing act," said Parks. "I spend a lot of time on each event, breaking down techniques for things like hurdles and throws, and then working on endurance and speed for the running events. It's a lot of different kinds of workouts, but it keeps things interesting!"

At the PSAC Championships Parks was outside the podium with two events to go, but managed to score enough points to get into the top nine.

"Coming from behind to get on the podium at PSACs was a whirlwind of emotions," she said. "There was so much adrenaline and focus in the moment, and when I realized I'd made it, it was pure exhilaration. It just goes to show that you can never give up, no matter how tough things look."

Her efforts were recognized by the school with the major award.

"Being named Spring Athlete of the Year felt absolutely incredible, like all the hard work and dedication really paid off," Parks said. "It was such an honor and a huge motivation to keep pushing myself."

With good first year under her belt Parks is looking to reach new heights during her sophomore season.

"For next year, my goals are to set new personal bests in a few of my heptathlon events, help my team achieve some big wins, and continue to excel in my classes," she said. "I'm always striving to improve both on the track and in the classroom."