Klein Fall 2023

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\\ By Matthew Ogle BUTLER CONTINUES TO EXCEED HER OWN EXPECTATIONS BREAKING BOUNDARIES

cross country because it came natural to me. Ever since then, I’ve loved competing. “I really enjoy setting goals and breaking boundaries that a lot of people can’t do,” she said. “Also, it’s the team, they make it what I love. If it wasn’t for the team, I probably wouldn’t enjoy cross country as much as I do.” Butler still continues to play soccer for Klein Oak in addition to cross country. After all, she is the starting center back for the varsity team. Both sports give her the opportunity to incorporate another passion of hers. “I love making videos,” Butler said. “I have a YouTube channel, and I like to put a GoPro on my head during soccer warm-ups or during some runs. It’s just for fun, and everyone needs a hobby. Making videos is mine.” While she doesn’t intend to play soccer in college, Butler has aspirations of continuing to compete in cross country when she graduates in 2025. “Running in college is definitely something I see myself doing,” said Butler. “My decision will be based on how I relate to the team and the coaches at a university. I just want to go to a college that has a good running program, good people and good coaches. I still have time to think it over, obviously, but it will be determined by those factors.” Expect more big things to come for Klein Oak’s Lydia Butler as she continues to build her running resume.

goals.”

overall at State, the standard has been set for the incoming Klein Oak junior. Her expectations have obviously changed. “This year, I’m hoping to end up on the podium at State,” said Butler. “After having success last year, I feel like I have the confidence in myself and my team to reach those

KLEIN OAK’S LYDIA BUTLER BURST ONTO THE SCENE IN 2022. While she may have tempered her expectations in her sophomore year, Butler would go on to excel in the postseason. She would place third overall at Regionals, before qualifying for the UIL-6A State Meet. After finishing 16th

Given her knack for running, it might come as a shock that cross country wasn’t always Butler’s go-to sport. “Initially, I played soccer,” she said. “I think one of the main reasons I enjoy soccer is because of all the running associated with it. In seventh grade, I joined

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