Maria McDaniel - Kalamazoo

Journey to Movement:

My journey to movement started in Junior High School when I had the opportunity to join a Cross Country team for the very first time. I have always been very active growing up; I played soccer, swam on a swim team, was a figure skater, but always loved to run! My love for running, Cross Country, and Track grew during high school where I learned valuable life lessons that greatly helped improved my
running. I took those lessons with me to Western Michigan University when I decided to run collegiality for the Broncos and learned even more about myself, life, and running!!! I have been incredibly fortunate with amazing coaches my entire running career.

What's a fun fact about yourself? I am studying Occupational Therapy at WMU and am currently pursuing my Master’s degree. This is my last year at WMU, for my studies and my eligibility with the XC and ack team. I intend to make the most out of it! 

Where are your favorite places to run? My favorite places to run are on the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail and the Kal Haven Trail. These paths are so unique and are great for just about any run: tempos, fartleks, or easy! They are also long enough to get a good bike ride in! In addition to running, I love riding my bike, especially in a big biking community like Kalamazoo. I often bike to work! Stop in the store and I’ll be happy to help you!