Titusville senior Mason Jones was the model for consistency this cross country season with eight races under 16 minutes. Recently, Jones ended his recruitment by staying in state and selecting Florida Southern. He joins a Mocs program that is coming off a 26th place finish at D2 Nationals. We caught up with him to talk about the recruiting process, his decision, the upcoming track season, and much more.
What was the recruiting process like for you?
The recruiting process was very fun, but stressful because it's such a major life decision and you have to consider many different factors like major, location, and team chemistry.
Where all did you visit/consider?
I went on Official Visits to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, University of North Florida, and Florida Southern College.
In the end you picked Florida Southern. What was it that sold you on the Mocs?
I loved each campus and the locations. Also the runners on each team were very nice and supportive, but I chose Florida Southern College because I plan to pursue physical therapy. I really enjoyed the team and I feel like I will be in a position to compete on the varsity team and really help the team accomplish big things.
Coach Martucci is a young guy and very relatable to his athletes. What was your relationship with him like?
He is really passionate and energetic about coaching and I think that is really important for a coach.
I like that he graduated from FSC and he knows a lot about the college and has been a successful runner in college. It's impressive that he made D2 Nationals and I'm really excited to run for him and help the team make Nationals again!
I like that he graduated from FSC and he knows a lot about the college and has been a successful runner in college. It's impressive that he made D2 Nationals and I'm really excited to run for him and help the team make Nationals again!You mentioned making it to Nationals. The team was 26th and returns the complete roster. How exciting is that?
It's very exciting! I know the guys are really determined to work hard and push each other to run great and hopefully I can help bring the team to a top 20 finish next year.
Now that the decision is behind you, you can focus on your senior track season. What are your goals for this spring?
This season I am planning to run around 9:10 in the 3,200 and 4:15 in the 1,600. I am going to push hard this season and I know it is going to pay off.
