“I was so determined to beat the record that day. For the final jump, I gave everything I had because it was my last chance. I ran as hard as I could and jumped…” Ella Matheson, a junior with a fire in her eyes and determination in her heart, is a force to be reckoned with. She is passionate and competitive, always striving to be the best version of herself. With her long legs and natural athleticism, in her sophomore year, she was drawn to triple jump, an event in track and field. It took a little convincing from Mrs. Laurie Shook her coach, but Ella knew deep down that this was where she belonged. “She embraced the challenge, pushing herself to new limits and surprising everyone with her talent,” Mrs Shook said.

“In the sport of triple jump, every detail matters,” Ella stated. “By strategically positioning a small hurdle in front of the pit and using a soft mat for support, athletes like myself are able to propel our bodies further than ever before. With cones marking our board and desired landing spot, we are pushed to reach new distances with each jump.” On Wednesday, April 3, 2024, the Hayesville Track Team headed to Murphy High School for a routine track meet. The sun was shining, the air was crisp and windy, and spirits were mediocre at best as they prepared to compete against their rivals. Little did Ella know, this meet would be one she would never forget.

“The day I broke the record was a memorable experience. It was my first attempt at jumping for the 32 board, and I felt incredible from the start. The adrenaline was pumping as I pushed harder for my second jump, which was 34’8, just 3.5 inches off the record,” Ella said. The previous record was set back in 1998 by Jenny Davis with a jump of 34’11.5”. With determination and focus, I gave it my all for that final jump. And when they told me I had jumped 35’7, breaking the record by over a foot, I couldn’t believe it. It was a moment of pure joy and triumph that will stay with me forever. That day taught me that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.

Ella Matheson is a remarkable individual who has already made a lasting impact at Hayesville High School. Her talent and dedication to her sport have set her apart from her peers, and there is no doubt that she will continue to excel in the future. With the season still ongoing, Ella has already broken a record and shown that she is capable of achieving great things. It is clear that she has the potential to break even more records whether it be in the rest of the 23-24 season or her senior season at Hayesville High School.

 “ Never tell yourself you can’t do something. Always try your best even when it seems impossible. Tell yourself you can and you will do it because having a positive and determined mindset is the key to achieving your goals.” ~Ella Matheson