“Ethan had an outstanding career and senior year. He demonstrated leadership in a way that was really remarkable this season, putting his teammates above himself. In terms of training and performance, this was the best balancing act of his career and we’re awfully proud of what he’s accomplished.”

Brett Huber

Head Coach - Vestavia Hills head coach

Athletic Excellence

The 5-foot-9, 130-pound senior swept the 800-, 1600- and 3200-meter runs at the Class 7A state meet this past season, helping the Rebels win the state team title. Alabama’s two-time returning Gatorade Boys Cross Country Runner of the Year, Strand clocked personal-best times in five events this past season, including the 800 (1:52.73), the 1600 (4:11.77), the mile (4:07.90), the 3200 (9:12.88) and the two-mile (8:59.90). At the time of his selection, he ranked among the nation’s Top 20 2021 prep competitors in two events, including No. 7 in the 2-mile and No. 17 in the mile, as well as No. 67 in the 800 and No. 76 in the 1600. Also rated No. 48 in the national MileSplit 50, he concluded his prep career ranked No. 1 in state history in the 2-mile and No. 3 in the mile, according to MileSplit.com.

Academic Achievement

Strand has maintained a 4.17 GPA in the classroom. He has signed a National Letter of Intent to compete in cross country and track and field on scholarship at the University of North Carolina this fall.

Exemplary Character

Strand has volunteered locally on behalf of Rebels Impact through Service and Engagement (RISE), a service-learning project at his school.