Learning at state

Going to state was a huge accomplishment in itself. At divisionals, sophomore Jake Thompson was the only individual out of twelve from Alberton that was able to stamp a ticket to state track. At divisionals, Thompson jumped 39-7, a whole two and a half feet farther than he had ever jumped before. However, at state, Thompson ended up jumping a little over 38 feet.

"He didn't jump as far as he had at divisionals," Coach Rachel Clevenger said. "He didn't end up making finals, but it was a good experience."

Clevenger said last week that they hadn't even anticipated him to make the grade in the triple jump surprise. She said rather they anticipated him to go in other events. However, it was a pleasant surprise and Clevenger was happy to have him going.

Clevenger said last week that part of the reason he ended up doing so well at divisionals is that he was focused and starting to figure things out. Although he didn't make it past the finals this year in state, Clevenger said with two more years, she expects him to do even greater.

"He's got two more years left and I think we'll see him going to state in a couple more events next year, but we didn't actually think he'd make it in the triple jump this year, but rather other events," Clevenger said.

With never having been to the state track meet before, Clevenger said that nerves might have had something to do with how Thompson ended up performing.

"He was pretty nervous," she said, "which is okay."

Clevenger said that the experience will be valuable for next year and allow him to go even further. Clevenger felt that it was a good way for him to end the season.

"It was a great way to end the season," Clevenger said. "He got some good experience that will be good for next year."