Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Northland Pines senior runner Emma Thoma is back running after taking a slight break at times last year. She mainly does running sports, which include cross country in the fall and track and field in the spring. When she’s not outside running, Thoma enjoys painting and baking, and her favorite thing to bake is banana bread. Here is more on the Pines senior:

Do you have a nickname that your friends or family call you?
“When I was little, my family always called me ‘Em ‘, short for Emma. Over time, it just kind of stuck.”

Do you do any other sport besides cross country?
“I usually also run track and field, but last year I missed out on it because I did online school for a little bit at the end of the year. I plan on returning to track this year. I choose to do running sports because it helps me stay active, and it is very good for your mental health.”

Is there a personal goal you want to achieve in running this year?
“My goal for running this year is to continue to get better every day and do better each meet. I’ve been working hard to redeem myself after not running for a period of time while being in online school.”

What other hobbies do you have outside of sports?
“Outside of my running world, I also enjoy painting, hiking and baking. I hope to start painting more when I am able to get more free time on my hands. I love hiking and exploring new places in Upper Michigan. I think it is beautiful there in the summertime. My favorite thing to bake is banana bread, and it is the perfect pre-race/pre-run snack.”

Favorite vacation spot that you’ve been to?

Do you have a pre-race ritual that helps you before meets?
“My pre-race ritual is to just listen to music, pray and do our team warm-up. Before we race, we always do a group huddle with encouraging words and a prayer. It always helps calm nerves.”

Do you have any plans for after high school? Do you want to play a sport?
“After high school, I am still deciding on my plans for now. I know that I will not continue to run after high school, but it will still definitely be a hobby of mine.”