Spring-Ford senior track sprinter Brandy Nice was always a role player, as described by her winter head coach Danielle Stauffer. Nice has always run on relays in the past and contributed where need be, but never had the opportunity to qualify for individual competitions like she has in her senior season.

That's why, this week, Stauffer selected Nice as Patch's unsung hero.

"I selected Brandy for the unsung hero because I feel like this season in particular, she's really stepped it up," said Stauffer. "She's always done whatever we've asked her to do and putting forth good effort. As a senior, to identify someone who's working hard and finally did qualify as an individual in the state meet, it's just nice to give her recognition."

This year, Nice will be competing in two different competitions in the state championship meet, which is Feb. 25 at Penn State University. She, along with Mikaila White, Morgan Fenerty and Mikayla Francis, will compete in the 4x200 relay; but, as an individual, Nice has earned the opportunity to compete in the 400-meter dash, after hitting 1:01.02 at the Maroon & Gold Invitational last Saturday at Kutztown.

"I'm excited, but nervous at the same time," Nice said. "A lot more pressure, probably more nerves. I feel like I have to focus more and warm up a lot of the time."

During the fall season, Nice plays field hockey, and in spring, she continues her track career outdoors. Stauffer said Nice is a good person, and even got a little corny with her description.

"She's a nice girl living up to her name," Stauffer said. "It's true! She's a hard worker. She gets along with everyone on the team. She makes an effort to do so. She tries to be a leader. She likes to have fun and shows good leadership."

Nice will continue both her education and track career at the collegiate level. She is not 100-percent sure yet, but she is leaning toward Kutztown University with a major in elementary education. She will run at Kutztown if she does end up attending. Gwynedd Mercy College is also on her list.

Overall, Nice is hoping her senior cohorts will succeed in the competition this year.

"I think there's a lot of us seniors that are very good," said Nice. "I think we'll do very well at states and I'm excited!"