Henry Gilbert '18 Recruiting Profile

I was born and raised in Mobile, Alabama. Due to my father's job, my family and I moved to Shanghai, China. Here at an early age is where I fell in love with rugby and more importantly track. The fierce competition of my British school taught me the value of hard work from an early age. Once again at 12, we moved again, this time to Frankfurt, Germany. This school challenged me much more academically and also athletically. I was able to play basketball all through my middle school and freshman year, as well compete in track and field. While I loved basketball, and many hours were spent training on the court; allowing me to compete at the varsity level as a freshman, my true love was always Track and Field. Due to my natural competitiveness, I began working out in 7th grade and going to the gym every day my freshman year. Unfortunately, due to my own negative actions and decisions, it was best for me to transfer schools my sophomore year to the High Frontier. While I could not compete in track and field here, I was able to graduate High Schools two years early, with a 4.3 GPA and as valedictorian. I was also able to learn valuable life lessons, and turn my life around back into a postive direction.

I understand the natural hesitation of coaches to recruit an athlete that has only his freshman times to show, a year off.  However, I feel as if my freshman times speak to my work ethic and potential as a college athlete. My academics while they are not from the most rigors high school, show again my work ethic in all aspects of life. I whole heartily believe that taking a year off was one of the most beneficial experiences of my life, as it allowed me to learn how to transfer my naturally high drive to all areas of my life. Hence, creating a more balanced and fulfilling high school experience.

My international ranking of #1 in Europe has greatly motivated me and also convinced me that I can and will succeed at a college level. I look forward to running with top runners, and to prove myself not only athletically but also academically. I hope to compete this coming 2018 season, but running as a redshirt or unattached is also an option I am considering.