Shalyn Files '13 Recruiting Profile

I am a 5'4 Senior pole vaulter from Velma, OK. Pole vaulting has been a perfect fit for me; since beginning in my 8th grade season I have been the Oklahoma Class A State Champion as a Freshman and Sophomore. Earning me All-State honors in 2010 and 2011. I was the 2012 State runner-up after matching the winning mark but losing the tie breaker. I am a multi-sport athlete, participating as a varsity starter in softball, basketball, track, and cheerleading. I am also successful in the classroom maintaing a 3.7 GPA. I am a member of the Academic Team, Principal's Honor Roll, National Honor Society, and BETA Club. I have been elected as this year's Student Council President. I am a hard working, coachable athlete but I do not feel that my full potenial as a pole vaulter has not yet been reached. In our small school athletes play every sport which does not allow for specializing in one. Therefore, I have only practiced track for about six weeks each year of competition. For two years I worked with a gentleman in our communty who could help me every other week. After losing his help this season I was allowed to work with a coach from another school a few days a week. Outside of school I am currently involved in raising money to purchase water filters for familes in disadvantanged countries. Each of these filters will provide clean drinking water for the family for 40 years. I have been involved in coordinating, promoting, and organizing fund raising events. To date we have raised funds for 65 filters! I am looking for an institution where I can find the right balance between academics and field. I am seeking university where I can pursue community involvement while attaining a degree. Ideally, I would like to make an immediate impact at the collage level. Because of my commitment to hard work and ethics I believe that my best jumps are yet to come and I will consider any level of competition.