Teenager taking life as it happens

ST. MARYS - Alysia Nagel said she believes in looking at the bright side of things. That belief has led her to success in several endeavors, ranging from sports to the classroom.

"Go with what comes," Nagel, 18, said. "You can't change things so you might as well be positive. There's no use being miserable and when it's good take it and run. People don't usually focus on the good. They seem to focus more on the bad. Appreciate the good moments."

A recent effort Nagel is proud of is the 30-Hour Famine. Participants in the church-sponsored event sought pledges and then fasted for 30 hours. Proceeds were donated to organizations that fight world hunger.

"It wasn't that bad," Nagel said. "I ate a big lunch before we started and we had pizza after it was over. There were enough people there to keep your mind off it, enough things to do."

Nagel is a member of youth groups at New Community and Zion Lutheran churches.

"I like the youth groups," Nagel said. "I like the people and what they talk about. They talk about God and relationships with God and the Bible, how to live your life and get through difficult situations. God is sometimes quiet. You don't even realize what he's doing in your life. It's good to have people to talk to. They're always there for you."

A senior at Memorial High School, Nagel is taking advanced-placement classes in biology, English and government. She is member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society with a 3.83 grade-point average, the school's soccer team and band program on trumpet, St. Marys Goodfellows and Razors Indoor Soccer team, which is headquartered at Elida.

"I've played soccer for 12 years," Nagel said. "I like the flow of the game. It makes sense to me. You know how to start something and it's exciting. Of course, it depends on who you are playing. If the other team is too easy, it's boring, but most of the time it's fun."

Nagel plays midfield but said she was comfortable taking a forward position.

"I like when you get to improvise," she said. "Go with what's happening. I also like my teammates. They're really nice. They've been really good."

Nagel, who plans to play soccer at college, will take sport in any form, but was unable to decide if she preferred an indoor or outdoor field.

"Indoor soccer is a lot quicker," Nagel said. "You can use the walls as a passing source to get around other players. It's tough to decide which I like better. Indoor soccer has a quicker pace but there's nothing like a spring day to be outside on the field."

Nagel has not decided on a course of study to pursue after high school. Nor has she chosen a school. She is looking at Manchester, Huntington and Bluffton universities.

Nagel has been named a scholar-athlete twice. In the past, she played softball.

The teen works at McDonald's. For fun, she reads, hangs out with friends and cooks with her mother.

"I like helping my mom cook," Nagel said. "I usually put in the ingredients and stir everything. It's bonding time. Time to talk about our day. We have the same personality and we joke around."

Nagel is the daughter of Belinda and Rick Nagel. She has a sister, Erica, 20.