Ellensburg, Wash. -- Each week wildcatsports.com will highlight a different Wildcat student-athlete as part of our 2020 Player Profiles series.
 
Name: Rajesh Gill
Sport: Track & Field/Cross Country
Position: Distance
Hometown: Federal Way, Wash.
 
How many years have you been running Track and Cross Country?
10^th year running Track and 8^th year running Cross Country
 
Favorite Moment as a Wildcat?
Bonding with my teammates during trips to meets
 
What drives you to get up in the morning and train?
The idea that today is a day to better myself
 
What is something you are currently working on?
Being more confident in myself when I run
 
Is pineapple an acceptable topping for pizza?
Absolutely
 
Biggest Pet Peeve?
When people chew with their mouths open and make a ton of noise
 
If you were a superhero, who would you be?
Spider Man
 
Who do you consider role models? Why?
My parents because they emigrated from India and worked very hard to provide their children with the opportunity to receive a better life. They showed me that you can achieve your goals if you work hard for them.

Kobe Bryant is a big inspiration to me because he had such an amazing work ethic and was absolutely obsessed with his sport. He always strived to be a better version of himself and it made him one of the greatest athletes of all time.
 
Do you have any pregame or game day rituals?
Not particularly, I eat the same breakfast every meet day but nothing too out of the ordinary
 
When you aren't training, or playing, what are your hobbies?
Listening to music, following politics, reading, hiking
 
Which actor or actress would you pick to play you in a movie?
Hasan Minhaj
 
If you didn't play your position, what position would you play?  Why?
Pole Vaulting because flying that high in the air looks super cool
 
What music do you listen to right before a game?
Rap music, ex. Kanye West, Travis Scott, Future, Meek Mill, Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Logic, Big Sean