May 7 marked a very exciting and emotional event as track and field seniors Zephaniah Smith, John Williams, and Brooklyn Harris ran their last race at Hamilton High.
Because Hami’s track was under construction all year and the previous dirt track couldn’t be used for competition, the event was the first home track meet in Hami sports history, and the first time graduating seniors were celebrated on their own field.
Zephaniah, a senior in BITA who participated in the long jump, said he felt nervousness, sadness, and excitement all mixed into one. Knowing that this would be his last meet, he gave his appreciation to his coaches and friends that supported him throughout his journey getting there on senior night. He also offered advice to upcoming senior student athletes, telling them to enjoy every moment.
“It’s your last year, enjoy it while you can, and stay out of the drama, of course,” Zephaniah said.
Zephaniah said he hopes to continue his track career. He will attend the University of Alabama next year.
“Sports have been a part of me for a long time, so playing in college is also something that I want to do,” he said.
John Williams, a senior in Humanities, said before the event, he felt nervous more than anything, because the meet served as the prelims to qualify for finals, but he also felt excited because he got to do it with friends, and bittersweet because it was the last time they were all together to run track.
John said he was choosing to not play sports in college unless the opportunity is handed to him. He will be attending Louisiana State University this fall.
“Stay on that grind,” John advised underclassmen. “Don’t let anyone stop you from what you are doing and this goes out to all students. And also work out a lot if you are in sports. It’s very crucial.”
Brooklyn Harris, a senior in SAS, said she had mixed emotions about her final track meet at home.
“It’s definitely bittersweet,” Brooklyn said. “I’m excited to celebrate everything I’ve accomplished with my teammates, but it’s also sad knowing this chapter is coming to a close. This season didn’t go the way I planned because of my ACL injury, but I’m proud of the legacy I’ve built and grateful for all the moments, both the highs and the challenges.”
Brooklyn will attend California State University Fullerton in the fall, and she hopes to join their track and field team.
“I’m still figuring things out, but I definitely want to stay connected to the sport in some way because it’s been such a big part of my life,” she said.
King Colbert contributed reporting to this article.
