Hayden Paulette '27 Recruiting Profile

My name is Hayden Paulette, and I am a freshman at East Rockingham High School in Elkton, Virginia.  When I was in 6th grade, I discovered my passion for track and field, and since then, the sport has become an integral part of my life. What started as a means to stay active evolved into a profound love for the discipline, precision, and teamwork. Whether sprinting down the straightaway, or the precise orchestration of passing the baton to my teammate or soaring into the jump pits, the track has become my second home. In those moments, the track isn't just a surface to run on; it's where my dreams come alive through sweat and determination.  In every stride, in every baton pass, I feel the heartbeat of my sport and know that, for me, the track will forever be a second home—a place where I don't just run; I come alive.

 In 6th and 7th grade, I had the incredible honor of being a part of the 4x100m relay team that broke our school's record. As we moved into 8th grade, the dynamics shifted with an entirely new team, except for myself. Despite the changes, our team came on the brink of breaking the record once again. This experience taught me the resilience of a team and the importance of adaptability, it wasn't just about the milliseconds; it was about the shared pursuit of excellence and the belief that, as a team, we could achieve the extraordinary. Last year at districts I secured the first place in both the 100m and 4x100m events. I also claimed solid second place in the jumps.  In my freshman year, I am proud to hold the position of the number one student out of a class of 211 and achieving and maintaining a 4.0 GPA. As I pursue my academic and athletic endeavors, I aim to bring this same level of diligence and passion to the college that go I to, contributing not only to the track team but also to the academic community. Whether on the track or in the classroom, I've consistently found myself in leadership roles where I can inspire and guide others. This innate ability to connect with and motivate my peers has not only shaped my experiences but has also been instrumental in fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. I believe that leadership is not just about directing; it's about elevating those around you.

I am so thrilled about the prospects that lie ahead, both in my athletic journey and my college experience. The thought of continuing to grow and excel in track at the collegiate level is so exciting! I am eager to embrace new challenges, learn from experienced coaches, and contribute my skills to the success of the team.