All Access with track, cross country runner Jason Springer
Tuesday, September 23 2008 - Jason Springer
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Former walk-on and Eastern junior track and cross country runner Jason Springer is a modest team-first player who anyone would love to have as a teammate. Springer recently sat down with Staff Reporter Ari Horing to talk about how his coach has influenced his sports career and what he wants to do after he graduates from college.
What do you like better track or cross country?
Track without a doubt. I like the training and track meet atmosphere better.
What athlete do you most admire?
I most admire my 800 crew teammates because we all make smart decisions and work hard.
What do you want to do once you graduate?
I'm an accounting major. Once I graduate, I want to do stat work for a pro sports team, preferably the Cubs.
Who has been the most influential to your career?
Coach (Geoff) Masanet. When I got here I was just a walk on.
But he has helped me become much more than that. He cares about every athlete and wants them to succeed.
He goes out of his way to make sure everyone is happy.
What do you like most about Eastern?
I love the campus because everything is so close and compact.
The people are also great and I like the small town atmosphere.
Would you rather win or have your team finish first?
Definitely team. I care about my teammates and would rather see all of us succeed than me individually.
What is your favorite non-Eastern sports moment?
Well, it hasn't happened yet, but when the Cubs win the World Series this year.
What is your favorite personal sports memory?
Getting second in the 1,500-meter (run) outdoor conference (meet) at Southeast Missouri State last year.
What is your favorite event in track?
A tie between the 1,500 meters and 800 meters. The way you approach them is very different, but I love the training for both events.
What is something that nobody knows about you?
I can quote "Seinfeld" like it's my job.
Ari Horing can be reached at 581-7944 or at akhoring@eiu.edu.