North Florida Christian senior Darrielle McQueen is one of the top jumpers in the country. McQueen is a six-time 1A state champion, winning the triple jump four time (eighth grade, freshman, sophomore, and junior year)and long jump twice (freshman, junior year). She is also the 2010 and 2012 AAU National Champion in the triple jump. The standout boasts personal best marks of 40-11 for the triple jump and 19-9.5 for the long jump. Recently, she announced that she will continue her athletic career at the University of Florida. Do you have a college commitment? We want to know about it! Drop us a line: Todd.Grasley@milesplit.com and we will feature your moment and add it to our signings list!
What was the recruiting process like for you?
The recruiting process was long and fun. I was able to meet a lot of great coaches throughout the process. I really enjoyed it.
The recruiting process was long and fun. I was able to meet a lot of great coaches throughout the process. I really enjoyed it.
Where else did you consider?
I initially considered every school when I began the recruiting process. As I continued exploring schools I then started narrowing my choices. I considered University of Alabama, University of Central Florida, University of Kentucky, Georgia Tech, and University of Florida.
Why did you ultimately choose Florida?
I ultimately chose Florida because I felt that's where God was leading me. I really like the coaching staff, the athletes, the campus, and their academics.
Did the success of some of the male jumpers like Will Claye and Christian Taylor make an impression on you?
The success of their athletes did make an impression on me, but that was not the primary reason I chose UF. I believe the success of the coaches and athletes is a bonus I will receive when I go there.
What was your relationship with the coaches and future teammates?
My 8th grade year my high school coach told me about UF and the qualifying marks needed to got there. At the time I did not think a whole lot about it but it did catch my attention. When I thought back to my 8th grade year I laughed because UF is where I chose to go. My relationship with the coaches and athletes is good. I look forward to working with everyone and gaining new teammates and coaches.
What are you looking forward to the most about being a Gator?
Being a Gator, I am most looking forward to the opportunity to attend a highly regarded academic institution and to be part of an outstanding track and field program that provides great coaching, and to be able to work with so many top level athletes on a daily basis.I believe the consistency of my season, overcoming hamstring injuries, and very little weight room experience surprised the coaches.
What are your goals going forward?
My future goals include ending my high school career with more state titles, have another winning season, assist UF's team in winning conference and national title(s), winning an individual national title, and someday representing my country at the Olympics.
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