Sylvan-Lucas junior Caleb Dlabal approaches cross country with a mindset rooted in improvement, community and the relationships built along the way.
Dlabal, who also competes in track and manages the basketball team, has found a home on the cross country course. Whether he is training on dirt roads near home, running in town with friends or practicing around the Sylvan area, he values both the work and the people beside him.
“The thing I enjoy most about being on my team are my teammates, we always have the best times whether that’s running or just talking. So in the end I really would say spending time with the team.”
His favorite practice settings include the lake and country roads near Sylvan-Lucas, places that provide both variety and a connection to his hometown.
“For fun I enjoy running on the dirt roads around my house in the country or in town with friends. My favorite places to run during practices are at the Lake or also back roads around the Sylvan area. We have many awesome routes my Coach has found that are always fun.”
During long runs, Dlabal stays focused on becoming a better athlete. His personal-best time is 22 minutes, 45 seconds, set at the Buhler 1A regional meet last season.
“On long runs, I’m usually thinking of how I can make myself better or improve on that run.”
His motivation also comes from cousin Justine Dlabal, who first encouraged him to give cross country a chance. She has remained an important supporter throughout his school and athletic journey.
“The person who inspires me is my cousin Justine Dlabal. Justine inspires me because she is very hardworking, caring, faithful, ambitious, and will go out of her way to help anyone. She was one of the first people who got me into running and convinced me to join XC. She always supports me and texts me after every race, asking how I do. She was also my fourth grade teacher, CYO sponsor, and my confirmation sponsor. She’s very involved in my life and never turns down an adventure or idea.”
Dlabal’s involvement reaches well beyond athletics. He serves as FFA president, Student Council vice president, KAYS secretary and junior class secretary-treasurer. He also participates in FCA, National Honor Society, musical, choir, Speech and Drama, Scholars Bowl, CYO, Prayer and Action, and 4-H.
He said leadership and service have become central parts of his high school experience.
“The biggest lessons I’ve learned from athletics is that the most valuable things you take away from sports is never the awards, but the friends, memories, and growth to turn yourself into a stronger leader and person. I know of multiple times where I’ve developed skills of leadership, courage, and determination and because of that I’m a stronger and better person today and still growing from life experiences.”
After high school, Dlabal plans to attend Kansas State University and major in an agriculture-related field.
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