First Year Feature - Cross Country

The transition from high school to college athletics is significant. We’re highlighting athletes from all varsity teams this season who are on the path to becoming great athletes at Dalhousie University. 

This week we would like to introduce you to Moncton, New Brunswick native Isaac MacLean. Isaac is on the cross country team, and is majoring in kinesiology.

How long have you been running cross country?

I have been running cross country from the beginning of high school as a way to stay in shape for other sports. However, in grade 11 I started to take the sport more seriously and took it on full time.

Did you play any other sports growing up?

I have played basketball my entire life and would’ve considered it my main sport for many years. I also played rugby and competed in biathlon, and cross-country skiing.

Who is somebody in sport you admired growing up and why?

As a kid I always admired Steve Nash because he was from Canada, went to a small Division 3 school, and still found a way to become a two-time NBA MVP. He felt like a relatable sports figure who defied the odds.

What is the most memorable moment in your career so far?

My little brother is really into running cross-country and track because of what he sees me do. That is incredibly motivating for me to know that what I’m doing is influencing him in a positive way.

What made you choose Dalhousie University?

I chose Dalhousie for one main reason. Obviously, the program they have built here is very successful and knows how to win, but that wasn’t what sold me on Dal. When I came for my visit last November, I loved the team dynamic. All the guys knew each other well and had a good time together. It was a group that I wanted to be part of.

What are some differences you’ve noticed being a part of a DAL team compared to your previous teams?

Everyone on the team is very set on winning. On other teams I’ve been on, the goal is more for self improvement with an ultimate benefit of winning. Here everyone wants to win, and we are very clear about our goals. 

How would you describe your time with the team so far?

So far, my time has been very eye opening to a lot of new ways to train. I have also enjoyed the high level of competition in practice. Iron sharpens iron, the only way I can improve is by training above where I am right now.

What are some of your interests outside of sports?

I still love to play basketball. No offence to cross-country but basketball is just a little more fun. I spend a good part of my free time getting shots up at the Dalplex.

Any pre-race superstitions/routines?

I don’t have any routines that I go through, but I like to tune out the day of a race. I just put on my headphones and focus on what I need to do.

What was the coolest experience you’ve had so far this year?

I went to legion nationals in 2022 and it was an incredible experience. Being from New Brunswick there is not very many opportunities to compete at a high level, so legions was great to see where my limits are at that level.

Fast Fact Questions:

Favourite food?: Pizza

Favourite movie?: Glory Road

Favourite warm-up song or current favourite song?: The Way I Am – Eminem

Favourite professional athlete or team?: Michael Jordan

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be?: Colorado

Who is an athlete that you would compare yourself to?: Brian Scalabrine