Salute To Seniors: Lauren Kilts - Mt. Dora Bible
What was your most memorable jump?
My most memorable jump was at the state meet this year when i cleared 5'6. It was my goal all year and to finally have gotten it, it was amazing, and i will never forget it.
Who would you consider your biggest competition?
My biggest competition was this year at Harmony. We went back and forth. She would clear then I would. Then she would clear then I would. In the end I ended up clearing 5'4 on my first attempt to beat her.
Out of all of your high school accomplishments which stands out the most?
My greatest high school accomplishment has to be winning state in the high jump this year and graduating with a 4.0.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your high school career?
I would have worked just has hard as i did this year. This year I was so dedicated from changing my approach to being in the weight room. I didn't do that the years before and this year it paid off big time.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The biggest obstacle would have to be my approach. It was never quite right and I know it was holding me back. This year my brother who high jumps at USF taught me his college approach and it changed my jumping in a great way.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the meets with all my really good friends, spending everyday with the same people you get really close with them. I will miss having everyone there to push me even harder.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
I would tell them to always give your all in everything that you do. Do your best and you will be the best. If you put your mind to something have a positive attitude and believe in yourself that you can achieve anything. Being confident in yourself is the most important thing there is.
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
He has always pushed me really hard and told me I could do it. The problem was i didnt believe i could do it until this year and when i finally believed in myself i did do it. Je is an amazing guy and I am thankful for always having him there for me and being a great example.
What are your college plans?
I am going to attend the University of South Florida in the fall and study nursing. I am also going to be on the track team and high jump with my big brother Bryan.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I would like to thank my coach first of all for teaching me and being there for me. I would also like to thank my parents for always supporting me no matter what sport I was doing, They were always there to cheer me on. Lastly, I would like to thank my older brother Bryan. He is by far my biggest inspiration. I saw him win state two years ago and ever since then that's all that i wanted to do, and he wanted it for me really bad. He helped me so much in my high jump especially this year with my approach. I am very excited to jump with him next year at USF.
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Want to be featured in our Salute To Seniors series? Drop me a line: TGrasley@milesplit.com and answer the questions above! Congratulations to the class of 2012 on all their hard work and success.