First of all, how did you first get involved
with track and field?
I started track in 7th grade to stay in shape for football.
What are all your personal records?
I have tied the school record for high jump at 6'6".
Do you do, or have you done, any other sports?
I also have played football and basketball since 7th grade. I also attend Riggs Football Academy in the off season.
I see you've also thrown a lot in your career in addition to being a high jumper, which I find to be a rare combination. How did you come to do both those events?
I thought it would be fun to try it when I was in 8th grade and happened to be good at it.
What is your favorite or most memorable
competition you've ever been in?
My most memorable competitions have been jumping at state the last two years.
(Photo provided by Zach Scholten)
Other than your own teammates, who are some of your favorite athletes to compete against?
Tyl Woelber because he jumps about the same as I do.
Who are some people that have been most helpful to you in your athletic career?
My parents, coaches and cousins have helped me tremendously throughout the years.
What is a challenge you have had to face as an athlete?
I had a 14 inch bar put into my chest to fix my pectus excavatum. I also had an strain of my ACL and MCL my sophomore year, sprained by ankle playing basketball 3 days before state track my sophomore year and flipped a moped before my junior year resulting in a lot of cuts and road rash.
What are your main goals for this upcoming track season?
My goal for this track season is to make it to state for the 3rd year in a row.
As a senior, what comments or reflections do you have over your track career, and how have your perspectives, strategies, or attitudes changed since you first started doing track?
I would say enjoy it while you can. I first started just to say in shape and get better for other sports. After I realized I was good at it I really started to do more technique to get better and enjoyed it.
Do you have any college plans?
Yes, I am going to attend Southwest Minnesota State in Marshall and play football.
What were some of the things that attracted you to SMSU?
I really like the coaching staff and the campus felt like home.
Do you have any rituals, routines, or
superstitions either on or off the track?
Yes, I have a Pepsi and Snickers before every meet.
How did that ritual get started?
I really like Pepsi and Snickers and I had them before I jumped my best so I kept doing it.
When not doing anything track-related, what might we find you doing?
I like to hunt, fish, farm and hang out with my friends when I am not working on track.
Tell me one bizarre fact about yourself.
I am obsessed with guns.