(Editor's note: The Day will be publishing a profile of a spring athlete for each day the high school athletic season is suspended.)

School: Montville High School

Class: Senior

Sport: Boys' track & field

Events: 100, 200 meters

College choice: Knox College in Galesburg, Ill. (will continue running)

Chosen major: Business

Athlete you grew up admiring: Kobe Bryant

Best moment of your track career: My favorite memory from track was back when I was living in Hawaii. I had made it to states for my events but we were able to travel to Maui (from Oahu). Being able to spend time with my team and make memories during our time on Maui is something that I will never forget!

Checking in with Kole: "I started running track my freshman year because my mom convinced me to and it ended up being one of the best decisions of my life. Thanks, Mom!"

What you need to know about Kole: Thurston, whose stepdad is in the Navy, lived in Hawaii before moving to Montville for his senior year. "I really loved the warm water and just being able to go to the beach with my friends," he said. "Every day had something new to offer, so I'm just blessed that I was able to have that opportunity in my life. My goal is to eventually go back and buy a beach house on the coast when I get older! ... I have never seen people more passionate about their culture than the people of Hawaii and I've always loved that." Thurston quickly made friends in Montville, joining the cross country team in the fall, and also immediately made an impact in indoor track, as he came .01 seconds from breaking the school record in the 55 meters. Thurston was third in the 55 at the ECC Division II meet in 6.71 seconds and eighth in the Class S state championship. He describes himself as a "pretty laid back guy," but was looking forward to proving himself on the track this spring. "Not everyone here knows what I'm capable of, so having the season canceled stinks!" he said. In addition to majoring in business — he's always wanted to start a business and be his own boss, he said — he plans to minor in photography. "I've always been in love with photography and when I ended up getting a camera for my birthday it was a dream come true," Thurston said. "Now I have the opportunity to minor in photography."