"Matthew is the ultimate teammate. He supports everyone on the team across all event groups and grades. He is a dedicated and hardworking runner that loves the sport. He will always go the extra mile in both running and as a teammate!" - Cale Schafer, Track & Field Coach 

Student Name

Matthew Hayden

School

Frontier Academy

Grade Level

Senior

Sports

• Cross Country
• Track & Field

Positions

Distance and Middle Distance Runner

Stats

• 5K: 15:53 official time; 15:40 unofficial time
• 3200m: 9:28
• 1600m: 4:25
• 800m: 1:57
• 400m: 52

"Though I could say getting State runner-up in 3A cross country in 2024, I would say my proudest achievement is creating memories, making friends, and building my legacy in running because goals and achievements are just reminders of that legacy." 

What's one goal you're currently working towards in your sport?

"One goal I would be happy to achieve is a sub 4:20 mile." 

Describe your worst sports performance. What did you learn from this experience? 

"My worst sports performance is the state cross country race my senior year. That was my worst performance because I had gotten sick on race day and held back from what I could have truly achieved. Though that experience was rough, it taught me how to accept and move on from the past. That experience taught me to worry less about perfection and always trying to be the best, and to worry more about enjoying the journey and bettering who I am. After my race, I became more self-aware of my position now and how far I've come."

Who are your role models in your sport or life, and how have they influenced you? 

"The biggest role models in my life are my parents, siblings, coaches, friends, and teammates. They had a positive influence on who I am today and on how I approach daily goals in life. Whether that's completing a workout, running a race, or even simple things like making new friends or helping others, I enjoy being a kind, generous, caring person. And, I am that way because of my influences around me." 

How do you balance sports with other responsibilities like school or work?

"Though being a student-athlete is tough, I tend to go day by day, balancing my schedule between school and work. I usually work on the weekends, go to school every day, and then practice at the end of the school day. I believe that homeschoolers like me also have rigorous schedules and other responsibilities to attend to with their sport." 

What are your career or college plans after you graduate high school? 

"I am committed to Metropolitan State University in Denver, Colorado. I plan to major in music and minor in finance. I then plan to pursue a career in music or start a business someday."

What advice do you have for younger athletes who want to join your sport?

"Though running seems hard, it gets easier the more you do it. Like my buddy Nemo the fish says: 'Just keep swimming.' I know it seems overwhelming, and there are times when you feel like quitting. But, remember that you're not alone, and it really does get better. My final advice: don't take the journey for granted. One day, you will be somebody very good at something. Whether that be running or something else, you must take in the memories and journey because time stops for nobody. And, sooner or later, we tend to forget the memories we created." 

Do you have any funny pre-game rituals or superstitions that you stick to?

"I tend to wear goofy socks during my races because it's cool, and my old teammate, Kalid, used to do that."

If you were to participate in a talent show unrelated to your sport, what would your act be?

"Either playing the piano blindfolded or painting."