Madison:

What college will you be attending?

• Vanderbilt

What sport are you signing for?

• Track & Field

What races do you run?

• 100m, 200m, 400m

How long have you been running track?

• Since 7th grade

How have you gotten to where you are now?

• I’ve gotten to this point in large part thanks to the support of my coaches, family, and friends. I also believe my general love of running and my sense of perseverance has kept pushing me to where I am today.

When did you know you were for sure going to Vanderbilt to run track?

• The last week of October.

What are you most excited for with being a student athlete at the next level?

• I’m most excited to be a part of the competitive atmosphere. Having the opportunity to thrive in an academic setting and run in one of the toughest conferences is something I can’t wait to take in.

Do you have any concerns about being a D1 athlete?

• I don’t really have any particular concerns.

How did it feel to sign in front of classmates, teammates, family, coaches?

• It felt amazing! I couldn’t thank everyone enough for all of the love and support they’ve shown me, and I’m so grateful to have had such a large number of people attend.

How has Burroughs helped you to get to where you are now and who has guided you here?

• The Burroughs community has been extremely supportive in giving me inspiration. Coach Merritt in particular has always given off positivity. I also can’t say enough to thank Coach Harris who has given me so much advice and teaching, aside from making track and field the sport I love most.

Advice for younger students looking to run track or play sports in college.

• Success is all in how you prepare. Make sure you always stay mentally focused and make expectations for yourself. Above all, surround yourself with positivity and love!

Derrick:

What college will you be attending?

• Iowa State University

What sport are you signing for?

• Football

What position do you play?

• Cornerback

How long have you been playing football?

• 15 Years

How have you gotten to where you are now?

• A lot of time put into my craft endless hours of working on my game embracing the mindset of hard work and dedication

When did you know you were for sure going to Iowa State for football?

• I knew within the first week of June.

What are you most excited for with being a student athlete at the next level?

• Making new bonds and connections that I otherwise wouldn’t have. Also playing on a big stage in front of thousands of fans is something I am looking forward too.

Do you have any concerns about being a D1 athlete?

• Nahhh son

Are you excited to sign in front of classmates, teammates, family, and coaches?

• Yes I am. I can’t wait to share the experience with all of my supporters.

How has Burroughs helped you to get to where you are now and who has helped you?

• Coach Merritt in particular has helped greatly throughout my process, contacting and vouching my name to different universities. He has been a tremendous help to my success.

Advice for younger students looking to play sports or football in college.

• Stay on top of your schoolwork and make sure to put in extra work in whatever sport you choose.