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Sophia capri musician/ athlete stands at Robinson Stadium awaiting her practice on Wednesday April 2, 2014.  (Daniel Valencia/Courier)
Sophia capri musician/ athlete stands at Robinson Stadium awaiting her practice on Wednesday April 2, 2014. (Daniel Valencia/Courier)

Attaining a college degree, pursuing a music career, and training for the 2016 Olympics are all commendable, full time commitments by themselves. Pasadena Sophomore Sophia Kapri is currently tackling all of these things at once.

Versatility is something Kapri admires in her heroes, and she counts the late singer Aaliyah as an influence.

“Aaliyah sang, danced, modeled, and acted,” Kapri explained.

It is hard to imagine dealing with the pressure and stress that comes with Kapri’s dreams. And the way she can handle everything with her positive energy and class has inspired others.

“She’s a little ball of energy, good energy,” said throwers coach Caleb Wood.

Kapri is also a Michael Jackson fan, and this becomes apparent after listening to a few of Sophia’s tracks. Even though she emulates Jackson’s style, each song is infused with her originality. It’s hard to classify her in a specific genre. Her music isn’t quite pop, hip-hop, or R&B. If you had to describe her sound with one word, it would be “Sophia.”

At the beginning of her college career, Kapri moved from her hometown of Glendale to Michigan so that she could run track and field for Michigan State. Due to financial burdens, she found herself back in Pasadena. Coach Larry Wade welcomed her with open arms and Coach Cedric Hill has been preparing her for the next level. Kapri is currently training to run hurdles for the Philippines in the Rio Olympics in 2016.

“It’s really all about grit, a growth mindset, positivity, and balance,” Kapri said.

“She’s very focused,” added teammate Bianca Addison.

For Kapri, the time to turn her dreams into reality is now.  Even though it can be overwhelming both physically and mentally, Sophia not only takes everything in stride, but even with a little extra pep in her step.

“Sometimes I even breakdown,” she admits. “As a track and field hurdler I exert so much energy at practice every day, and even when I sing I exert so much energy and emotion. In the classroom I know that I have to get As in all my classes because being a student-athlete is my way out to a college that is paid for.”

 

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