Salute To Seniors: Darrielle McQueen - North Florida Christian

 

What was your most memorable moment?

 

My most memorable competition was the 2013 New Balance Outdoor Nationals in Greensboro, NC at North Carolina A&T University. I had struggled all season with hamstring injuries.That triple jump win really illustrated to me that with prayer, hard work, and perseverance one can achieve.  

Who would you consider your biggest competition over your high school career?

I would consider myself my biggest competition over the past four years. Each day I strive to be better than the day before. Focusing on myself allows me to correct what it is that needs improvement and does not add extra stress of keeping tabs on someone else.

What was your greatest accomplishment?

My greatest accomplishment is earning seven consecutive state titles and four national titles.

If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in highschool?

If I could do it all over again, I would not change anything about my jumping career. I feel as each competition taught me a lesson-whether it be to enjoy the ride on top or to continue to work hard and not become content. I have grown tremendously over the past four years and I feel as every meet/title I won was meant for me to win, and those I did not win were meant for another individual to win. All in all, I've been blessed with a great career thus far and greater is to come. 

 

What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

The most difficult obstacles I had to overcome were the hamstring injuries my junior year and rebuilding my strong mental state of thinking. 

What will you miss the most?

What I will miss the most are the friends I've made over the years through track and field along with my teammates. I will also miss traveling with my family and track coach up and down the road for every meet.

What advice would you give to younger athletes?

I would advise younger athletes to keep God first, remain humble, work hard, manage your time properly, listen to your body, and most importantly, have fun. 

My coach has had an enormous influence with my performance and overall life goals especially these past two years. Because of my coach, I blossomed into the athlete I am today and he has inspired me to work hard and pursue my dreams and goals. Without my coach, I would not be where I am today. Times when I was discouraged he always uplifted me and never once doubted my ability to do well and succeed. 

What are your college plans?

 

My college plans are to attend the University of Florida on a full track and field scholarship and to obtain my bachelor of science degree in Business Administration and Psychology.

Who would you like to say thank you to?

I would first and foremost like to say thank you to God, for without Him I would not have this gift. I would also like to thank my parents and family for always supporting and encouraging me. I owe my coaches and teammates a thank you. I would like to say thank you to Mr. Todd and my local reporters. In addition I'd like to thank National Scholastic Athletic Foundation. Lastly, those who have supported me through words of encouragement, donations, or whatever it was I was in need of along the way.  

Anything else you would like to add?

Additionally, "Love the sport that loves you back." and "Education is a must, sports is a plus." Allow your gift (along with the right attitude) to take you all around the world. You are what you think and believe you can be.