News

From Effingham County High School, known as "the Ham" to the University of Miami known as "The U," the senior class of 2022 Cross country runner Candace Kieffer has officially signed to attend the University of Miami as a part of their cross country team. As well, she will be studying to become a radiologist. 

"I joined my running team in sixth grade as a way to do something fun. At the time, I didn't think this is where I would end up," stated Kieffer in an interview with the Prep Sports Report. Candace and her team won their Region 6A championship this fall, yet another victory to add to this young athletes list as she prepares to travel to Miami and help their long-distance program in their rebuilding stage. 

Kieffer went on an unofficial and official visit to Miami before coming to her conclusion. Both were crucial in her making her final decision. "When I went on my unofficial visit, I got to go ahead and meet the coaches. I clicked with them from the beginning. There I could see coaches who inspired me and wanted me to grow and be the best runner I could be. And then, on my official visit, Candace said, "I got to meet part of the team, and they were already accepting me as one of their own." Kieffer understands that she will be getting both a new team and another family when she gets to Miami. Kieffer knows this will be a  family that will push her in her studies and training. 

While Ms. Kieffer is ready to start her career with the Hurricanes, it wasn't so long ago that she never even planned on running long distances. "When I first started running back in sixth grade, I only wanted to make the short distance, sprints. So when my coaches told me that they thought I could be an excellent distance runner, I was hesitant. But I fell in love. And through that, I'm seeing opportunities I never thought possible. Like Miami." 

Candace was the 2020 Savannah Morning News All-Greater Savannah girls cross country runner of the year and didn't always see running in college as an option. But as she progressed and came to hold three school bests and win multiple region titles, the ECHS senior began to think differently. "I don't know; I guess I just don't see a point in stopping what I love when I have a chance to continue with it, and with people who already expect great things from me and are ready to help me achieve them."

Although Kieffer may have initially seen this year as her final year running, Miami thought differently. After announcing her signing on December 7, 2021, this highly accomplished runner from Effingham County High School has an entire career to look forward to at the "U," the University of Miami. Candace at is  "very excited to pursue and learn from her adventure!"

Photos - Stacey Morgan Kieffer

Optim Orthopedics supports Benedictine Military School, Calvary Day School, Richmond Hill High School, Savannah Country Day, South Effingham High School and St. Vincent's Academy athletics. Benedictine Military School's team doctor is Dr. David Sedory. The team doctor for Calvary Day School, South Effingham, and  Richmond Hill  is Dr. David Palmer. Savannah Country Day's and St. Vincent's Academy team doctor is Dr. Thomas Alexander. Remember, Optim Orthopedics gets you back into the game!