Mercer Island Reporter’s Athlete of the Week is MIHS freshman Ina Song, drill team.
What is your favorite subject/class in school?
I like all of my classes, so I don’t have a preference. But if I were to pick one, I would say math.
Name your Mount Rushmore (Top 4) favorite movies:
“Catch Me If You Can,” “Dune,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Titanic.”
Who is the person in your life that has helped you succeed the most?
So many people helped me succeed in my life, and I am very grateful for having that privilege. Among many who helped me, I think my mom has given me the greatest support. She supported me both mentally and physically, no matter what kind of situation I was in. When I first came to the United States three years ago, I had a hard time not just because of communication, but because of loneliness. I did not understand the culture here, and I barely had any chance to learn about it because of COVID-19. When I was at the lowest point of my life during those times, my mom, despite her own struggles, was always there for me. I cannot imagine my life without her. She is my heart and soul.
You’re on a long road trip you stop at a gas station. You get one drink and one snack. What are you choosing?
I would get a huge gallon of water and a jumbo-sized bag of beef jerky.
Describe your pre-game ritual.
I always tell myself to enjoy myself, and I try to think of any big events as me practicing alone facing a mirror because that is when I can truly be myself without caring about how others would view me.
Song you currently can’t stop listening to?
“Cruel Summer,” by Taylor Swift.
From the Sidelines: Ina is a freshman and a new member this year on the drill team at Mercer Island High School, and she has shown her total dedication to the sport from day 1. Her growth in a few weeks is attributed to her tireless commitment to try her hardest, improve a little each day, and fully participate in all aspects of drill. Ina attacks every practice completely ready and willing without fear. Ina is one of those rare athletes who listens and immediately applies every correction with rigor and grit. Her level of attention and grit this early in her drill team journey will be her not-so-secret weapon and her coaches can’t wait to see where she will be by senior year. Keep up the amazing work, Ina.
