Landstown star doesn’t let COVID derail path to college
There is no guarantee that there will be a high school track season this school year because COVID-19.
That concerns many athletes trying to earn a scholarship.
That’s why Mia O’Neil considers herself blessed. The Landstown senior committed to Tennessee this week. She chose the Volunteers over Oregon, Penn State, Purdue and Iowa.
“The coaches connected with me is what really stood out,” O’Neil said about Tennessee. “Just the energy they gave me. They gave me such a home feeling, especially when I visited the campus. The campus was so beautiful. Everybody was family. It was exactly what I wanted and everything I was looking for.”
O’Neil had an amazing sophomore season as she ran 54.70 seconds to win the 400 meters at the Class 6 state outdoor meet. She also placed fourth in the 200.
She was expecting bigger performances her junior year and got the season off to a great start when she finished runner-up in the 300 meters at the state indoor meet. She also helped the 4x200 relay team place third.
She was ready to defend her title in the 400 when COVID-19 hit and canceled the season.
“It was devastating at first,” said O’Neil, whose personal-best time of 38.75 in the 300 meters ranks No. 14 on the MileStat.com alltime state list. “I was very upset at the beginning of it, but over time I came to realize that I had to make sure I continued to work for the upcoming seasons that we may have. I just had to have a positive mindset and just continue to push. I just had to keep training and hope for the best.”
She credits Landstown coach Tom Anderson and Virginia Beach AAU track
coach Nick Mayer for helping her stay in shape and remain focused.
“I’m proud of myself and thankful and I had a great support system throughout the whole process,” she said.
Anderson is excited for O’Neil and proud of what she’s accomplished so far.
“Mia is one of many Landstown track and field athletes that has taken advantage of her academic and athletic abilities and now has the opportunity to make a difference in the world,” he said.
She’s going to have a chance to compete for a top program in the tough SEC. She’s ready for the challenge.
“Having these experiences is overwhelming and mind-blowing,” she said.
“I’m speechless and to go to a great school is really amazing.”
She added that COVID-19 has made her a better and a more determined athlete.
“They’re going to get an athlete who’s very strong, physically and mentally,” she said. “… Who perseveres through everything, is very resilient and has a lot of heart.”
With so many uncertainties about the upcoming season, O’Neil isn’t sure what to expect. But she does promise she will be ready.
“I’m very prepared,” she said. “I’ve been training non-stop even with the whole COVID situation. I’ve been training, working hard and keeping a motivated mindset. And I’m ready for whatever season there is going to be.”