Taylor Gerard '19 Recruiting Profile

I began participating in track and field in fifth grade. At the time I had no idea that it would become one of the most important aspects of my life. Track and field has given me opportunities to gain experience as a leader, a team player, and an athlete. Freshman year I was placed on the varsity track team and I believe this helped me mature as an athlete and drove me towards realizing my potential. My high school track coach, Mr. Nelson, never fails to push our team to greatness. One of his favorite sayings is, " The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary." The first time I heard it I laughed it off, but he is absolutely correct. In order to achieve great things one must put forth the effort. That is why I train as often as possible in and out of season. During the high school season we are driven very hard by our coaches. Out of season I lift at LifeTime Fitness with a personal trainer, I improve my agility and acceleration at FitSpeed, and I also attend private jumping sessions with an experienced coach. My hard work must have paid off because at the end of my Sophomore year I qualified for long jump at the state level. I aspire to do the same throughout my next two years of high school. Although I am dedicated to my sport, I do not let that commitment interfere with my academics. Track and field is extremely important to me, but I know my grades are crucial to my success. I maintain my grades because I understand the importance of education. After college I will be taking the memories and experiences given to me by track, but more importantly I will be leaving with a major, helping me find the career I've always dreamed of. I want to participate at the collegiate level in order to become a more well-rounded individual, reach my goals as an athlete, and compete in the sport I love. I am committed to fulfilling my goal of becoming a collegiate level athlete.