Central College Athletics

Addison Parrott
Danville, Iowa
Class of 2025

Why did you choose Central?

I chose Central for a few different reasons. My older sister, Kinsley, went here about four years before I did, so I became drawn to the campus while visiting her. I also knew that I wanted a smaller college in a homey town since I’m from a tiny town myself. Running was important to me as well, and Coach Dunham relentlessly pursued me to be a part of his team.
 
Favorite professor and why?

My favorite professor at Central is Shawn Wick. He teaches some of my sociology courses and inspires us to think and seek the truth. Not only does he encourage me academically, but he is always asking how I’m doing personally and athletically.
 
You’re majoring in psychology and sociology because? 

I’m majoring in psychology and sociology because it gives me the best of both worlds! I came to Central undecided on a major and quickly fell in love with these two subjects and their role in one’s mental health. I’m also minoring in religious studies, so I hope to use this to ultimately shy away from today’s typical mental health quick fixes and provide the truth of lasting joy through a combination of psychology, sociology, and Jesus!
 

Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?

This past school year, I was involved in the Scholte Hall Council, Psychology Club, Campus Ministries, Student Instructor for General Psychology, and two work studies at the Central Spirit Shoppe and SSS Office.
 
Who are your go-to musical artists?

My go-to musical artists are Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Surfaces, Coldplay, and Lauren Daigle.
 
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?

Attending Central while playing a sport has been the most beneficial yet challenging part of my college career. Coming in as a freshman, I immediately had about twenty built-in best friends that did everything together. Being able to grow those friendships and experience every single high and low together is a blessing that I try never to take for granted.
Running in college has also changed my perspective on the sport into a more positive one. I’ve realized that enjoying the process and staying healthy are two important ways to keep myself from getting burnt out. Along with this, I’ve come to discover that there is so much more beyond running, so looking at the bigger picture of things is crucial.
Participating in a sport while also trying to balance school does have its struggles, and I have doubted my capabilities at times. But listening to my body and ultimately putting my schoolwork first has benefited me in my growth as a student-athlete.
 
What is your favorite smell in the whole world?

My favorite smells would be men’s cologne or marshmallow-scented candles. :)
 
Favorite place to run (examples: mountains, beach, farm, any other specific place)

I love running on country gravel roads, especially when the sun is setting. They remind me of the beauty of Iowa that I often overlook.
 
Best movie to turn on as white noise while doing homework?

Probably some Disney movie like Toy Story or Frozen.
 
Most embarrassing moment?

I embarrass myself a lot, but a few specific moments do come to mind. One of those would be when I was doing my first steeple water jump at practice and fell pretty hard into the water. Another time would be when I was squatting in the weight room and fell backward with the bar, causing a thunderous noise and stares from everyone. Lastly, on one of our long runs freshman year, I overslept and had to sprint to catch up to the rest of the team (I did have my fastest long run that day though lol).
 
Favorite TV Show

My favorite TV show will forever and always be The Office. I’ve rewatched the whole series at least eight times, so I can easily quote the famous Michael Scott.
 

What’s it like to run for Coach Dunham?

Running for Coach Dunham has benefited me in so many ways. He’s taught me what it truly means to run for God and give Him the glory in every single race. He cares not only about me as an athlete but as a human being. Whenever I’m struggling with school, faith, or confidence, he’s always the first to pick me up and remind me of the truth. I honestly don’t think I would’ve made it through my first year of college if it weren’t for his fatherly figure guiding and caring for me. He’s the best!
 
What’s your favorite part about being a member of the Central Women’s cross-country team?

Our women’s cross country team is such a close-knit group of girls that motivate and care for one another. I love that I can just pick someone new to run with every day and have meaningful conversations about anything and everything. We get to travel to new places together, help push each other in workouts and races, and lift up one another when we’re struggling. I wouldn’t want to be a part of any other team, that’s for sure!
 
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?

Ten years from now, I hope to be a wife and a mother, which is crazy to think! I’m not entirely sure what my hopes are for a career yet, but as of now I wish to either work for a Christian counseling firm or have my own private practice. However, if I’m nothing but a mother, I would still be content. I hope to be training for marathons and running for enjoyment, too!

Favorite food from Central Market

My favorite food from Central Market is asparagus, seasoned potatoes, and fresh cookies!
 
Bucket list

I don’t really have a bucket list, but there are a few silly and serious goals that I hope to achieve one day. I want to be scuba certified, do a backflip on a trampoline/diving board, get my doctorate in psychology, become an All-American in xc and/or track, and so on. I’m a dreamer though, so I’m constantly generating new goals to accomplish everyday!