Gianna Filaretos '17 Recruiting Profile

   One of my biggest accomplishments was winning first place in high jump for the Freshman Sophomore meet in 2015 and Northeast Champs.  I never knew my real passion for track until 7th grade, when I was introduced to High Jump. It made me feel different from others because I was always told I “jump like a dancer” and I'm “light on my feet”. I always had my own concept to jump. I used my dance technique and matched it with High Jump.

    Fall of sophomore year and fall of junior year I had a bone spur growing in my toe and had surgery both years. I learned how to fight through pain and injuries for a long time. I had to compete with this pain for a year until I realized what was wrong. I was able to get back in shape and back into my routine by winter for indoor track.  I also went through mono the spring of my junior year. I competed in track and dance while I was sick, but it got to the point where I wasn't able to move. The last week of track I wasn't able to stay away. I competed the last meet and qualified for States in triple jump and high jump. I was very surprised but I knew I had to work hard in that one week of track to make States. I was told by my coaches I had to set small goals in order to get back to my main goals. My coaches helped me become strong, confident and focused.

    I had some troubles in my family which made me more determined in track. My goal is to be the first person in my family to go to college. I knew I had to do my best to help pay for college in the long run because I would love to go to school for engineering or criminal justice. I have also been interested in Sports Management. I hope to find what fits me best. I have been responsible for paying for my sports, food, clothes and necessities since around 8th grade. This helped me gain independence In my own life and helped focus on what is important to me. Track can help me with my life if I am able to pay for a college that fits me best. I am not only a track runner, but I cheer, dance all year round, and I have two jobs. With the way my life has been since middle school, I know I would be a great athlete in college. I have great work ethic, I'm committed to finish what I started, and I have a great character. I attack any work out or obstacle, and I love challenges. Track has always been the main focus in my life and I hope my track life continues in college. I am determined to do what it takes to be the best I can be. As a four sport athlete, I believe I have what it takes to be a leader on your team." I don't fear failure, I fear not trying at all."