The Urbana Boys Track & Field Team placed 3rd in State and crowned three state champions during the state tournament. The last time Urbana Boys brought home a top 3 finish was in 1942.
- Senior Daniel Mboyo won long jump on his final attempt. The first long jump champion in Urbana history.
- Jeremiah Hamilton took home the state title in the 200 meter dash.
- The 4×1 meter relay team finished in 42.11 for the state title and set an Urbana School record.
Check out a Q&A below!
“It’s hard to express how much I’ve enjoyed spending time with these athletes. It’s one of those “you had to be there” kind of moments. Except in this case, that moment has lasted 4 years. Beyond the long meets & training days, the relationships and endless hours spent after training is what you cherish most. Constantly laughing until tears came out, debating about trivial things that didn’t matter, fighting over the last pack of fruit snacks, playing basketball on our off days, talking about relationships and future plans…Countless memories with these guys… But, that didn’t come without uncomfortable disagreements and setbacks. That’s what family does though. They stick it out, good or bad and make it work. And that’s what we did! The tears of happiness and the emotions I felt as each event crossed the finish line filled my heart in a way that I’ve never felt before. I will continue to chase that experience each and every year. ”
Head Coach, Forrest Farokhi
Q: This was an interesting season I’m sure because of COVID — how did all of the changes impact the season for you?
A: COACH Farokhi – We had our 2019-20 Track season canceled. Every member of the team who scored points at State this year was also a member of the 2019 season (minus Freshman phenom Cedric Sabin). So, as far as impact, we had to walk away from an entire season that could’ve been equally as memorable. That said, the lost year most certainly shed light on the importance of taking advantage of every moment, as nothing in life is ever guaranteed. I believe that was a driving force for their dedication this year. All of the senior boys are like family to me. My only goal this season was to try and appreciate each day we had together, as I knew this was our final hurrah. Seniors Jeremiah Hamilton, Sean Longdon, Caelan Webb, Daniel Mboyo, Emilio Kabekele, Jacob Barker, and Jazarieon Barber all balanced working full-time jobs along with their school work and our training schedule. Despite these heavy responsibilities, these boys showed up to train hard at practice every day. Remarkable.
Q: This is the first top 3 finish since 1942. (Amazing!) What does it mean to you to be able to bring the trophy home to Urbana — especially as seniors?
A: (Jeremiah Hamilton – Senior) Finishing in the top three was the best achievement we have done as a team. Me personally, I feel like I’ve left a gift for the future classes.
Q: What advice do you have for your team as you depart UHS?
A: (Jeremiah Hamilton – Senior) My advice for the coming class: Don’t ever give up, finish through the line, and always be kind to one another.
