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Starting Blocks Afam

Women's Track and Field Tom Riordan

In the Starting Blocks: Valerie Afam

The indoor season begins this week when UNCW competes at the Bob Pollack Invitational, host by Clemson, later this week.

Valerie Afam enters her final season with the Seahawks looking to build upon a fourth-place finish in the Long Jump last spring at the CAA Championships. Afam ranks on UNCW's top-10 lists in five events with a high of sixth in the 60-meter Hurdles.

Valerie Afam actionUNCWsports.com: Take us through your pre-event mental preparation routine.
VA: Before a track meet I focus entirely on the event I am about to do. I don't allow my mind to wander anywhere else EXCEPT that event. It is very important for me to relax. For example, when I am on the runway about to jump, I envision myself jumping before I actually do it. I talk myself through the different parts of my technique that needs to be adjusted.

UNCWsports.com: Do you belong to any other clubs, groups or organizations?
VA: I am a part of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, NPHC and African Student Organization

UNCWsports.com: Describe your dream job:
VA: My dream job is to become a neonatal nurse practitioner because I love working with babies. It is truly a passion of mine.

UNCWSPORTS.COM: Favorite team tradition/activity and why?
VA: One thing that we do every year is, Tracksgiving. It is a thanksgiving dinner we have as a team. I love that tradition because it gives us a chance to bond outside of the track.

UNCWSPORTS.COM: What is your favorite quote or phrase?
VA: To whom much is given much is tested.  This is my favorite quote because it is very much true and I live it everyday. Although I am awarded many opportunities as well as many rewards for my hard work, there are always just as many things required of me. I like to say to whom much is given; much more responsibility is also given.

UNCWSPORTS.COM: What is your favorite type of food (i.e. Chinese, Mexican, Italian etc.)? How about meal?
VA: My favorite kind of food is hibachi, mainly because of the white sauce. I could eat it everyday! My favorite meal however is chicken and shrimp alfredo.

UNCWSPORTS.COM: Favorite place you have visited or traveled to and why?
VA: My favorite place I have visited is Wintergreen Resort. It is a ski resort in Virginia. It is my most memorable experience because I had a chance to take lessons in snow boarding and I really enjoyed it. I plan to snowboard regularly during the wintertime.

UNCWSPORTS.COM: If you could sit down for lunch with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
VA: Oprah, she is so successful that I am sure I could get some tips from her on how to be successful in my own life.

UNCWSPORTS.COM: Most addicting television show?
VA: Nikita! Nikita is a show with a female lead actress who takes charge and calls all the shots.

UNCWSPORTS.COM: How will you change the world (or even just one person's world)?
VA: I will change the world of many people by simply being friendly. it is amazing how much a simply "hello, how are you doing" could brighten up someone's day. I plan to build true and genuine relationships with people who may not have very many relationships. At the end of the day we all need someone to talk to.

UNCWSPORTS.COM: Tell us something about yourself that most people don't know …
VA: I was born in Nigeria but moved to Albemarle, North Carolina when I was 18 months old.

UNCWSPORTS.COM: What is number one on your bucket list and why?
VA: Sky Diving, to me it is the ultimate test of facing your fears. One day I hope to build up the courage to do it.

UNCWSPORTS.COM: What is your best non-athletic skill?
VA: I wouldn't say this is my best skill but I am currently learning to play guitar and I love it!

UNCWSPORTS.COM: What is your biggest pet peeve and why?
VA: My biggest pet peeve is when someone uses, takes, or borrows something of mine without asking. I am a creature of habit and know exactly where all of my things are so when something disappears it really bothers me.

UNCWSPORTS.COM: What is something you are afraid of?
VA: One thing that I am afraid of is Alzheimer's. I cannot fathom not be able to remember the wonderful moments in my life as well as the bad ones. The memories of people I have met and experiences I have had is not something I take for granted.

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Players Mentioned

Valerie Afam

Valerie Afam

5' 5"
Senior

Players Mentioned

Valerie Afam

Valerie Afam

5' 5"
Senior