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Lillie Bogdan knows what it feels like to be on top. As the nation's top returning steeplechaser, her name is already recognized on start lines across the country. But after a winter of watching from the sidelines, the senior standout is ready to reclaim her spotlight-this time with even more gratitude and perspective.
"It definitely feels great having that title," Bogdan said. "Being able to go into races where people recognize you or your name is definitely a surreal feeling."
Bogdan missed her entire indoor season due to a case of mononucleosis, forcing her to take a hard pause on her training. While disappointing, the break provided clarity.
"Honestly, I felt it was necessary to recover," she said. "Most of the time, us runners focus on pushing through illnesses and injuries, which is natural to who we are as dedicated track athletes. But sometimes taking that time off allows you to reset your mind and discover who you are-not just as an athlete, but as a person."
The return wasn't easy. Rebuilding strength, fitness, and confidence meant going back to the basics-something Bogdan embraced with quiet determination and support from those closest to her.
"Like all injuries and illnesses, it is always a battle to push through," she said. "Starting from scratch and going through the basics is so tedious, but it reminds us of how far we have come. Having the support from my family and teammates was crucial to my recovery process."
Now healthy and grounded, Bogdan enters her final high school season with both speed and perspective. She's not just chasing PRs-she's savoring every step.
"I am looking forward to breaking some personal bests," she said. "But most importantly, I want to finish off my season knowing that I have come so far from where I began and enjoy the last couple of meets with some fast competition."
The steeplechase has always held a special place in Bogdan's heart-though it wasn't always that way. Her introduction to the event came suddenly, with just one day's notice before her debut in eighth grade. It was a rough first outing, to say the least.
"I fell over every single water jump," she laughed. "After that race, I had no intentions of doing that event again. But my brother Cameron really inspired me to keep going. Without Cameron, I would not be in the position I am today."
What once felt impossible is now her signature. The steeplechase's unique rhythm and grit demand a rare mental and physical toughness-something Bogdan has learned to embrace fully.
"You never truly understand what it's like until you approach that first barrier," she said. "From first glance, it seems like jumping over it would be easy, but there is so much more to it. Understanding the rhythm and pattern to each step is what will make or break your race."
What makes the event even more special for Bogdan is the sense of purpose that comes with each lap.
"The idea of looking forward to something while you're running is what makes the event so special to me," she said.
Coming off a season of stillness, she's approaching her training-and her mindset-a little differently this spring.
"This season I've just learned to have a positive mindset and to take things slowly," Bogdan said. "It is so hard to get caught up in the sport and hyperfixate over every bad race or practice. Just taking the time to slow down, spend time with family, and expose yourself to different things will allow you to enjoy the sport so much more."
As she toes the line this spring, Bogdan carries more than just top times-she brings resilience, gratitude, and a hunger for one final high school season done right.
"I am beyond excited to jump into this track season," she said. "And I'm thankful for all the opportunities I've had throughout my high school career."
