Jalen Thomas '21 Recruiting Profile

Why do I want to compete on the collegiate level for track?  I love this sport.  To me it is the best of both worlds; it is a team sport and also an individual sport.  I really like being part of the team, cheering on my teammates and watching their events and I love working with my relay teams to improve each week.  But I also enjoy the individual aspect of the sport.  I like knowing that in my events I am responsible for my own success and failure.  It is also a sport where you can try so many new events.  In addition to my usual events, the 100 M and the 200 M, I’ve participated in the 4 x 100 relay, 4 x 200 relay and the 4 x 400 relay.  If we had competed in 2020, I was going to try the open 400 M.  Based on my splits, our coach thought it was an event I can excel in. 

Last year as a freshman, I made it to the State competition.  My goal this year was to get on the podium meaning I at least made the finals.  My senior year goal is to win State in the 200 M.  It is disappointing to not have a season during my junior year. 

I wanted to point out that I have only ran high school track one year, my sophomore year.  I participated in 8^th grade and did well but skipped my freshman year.  I know I can be a lot better with more experience and meets under my belt. 

Track is honestly the main factor for me to attend college.  I am on an IEP in school and have struggled most of my life with some minor learning disabilities.  I didn’t think college was an option for me until I had success in track.  Now, the idea that I can continue to run on a collegiate level, drives me to go to college.