In their final year as track and field athletes, seniors Isabella Copeland and Ryan Stulting will represent the Redhawks at the UIL 5A State Meet Friday in Austin at Mike Myers Stadium.

“They have accomplished so much this season as seniors, setting school records in both events,” head girls track coach Khera Vay said. “This meet is the best of the best. There will be nine competitors in both events and for Ryan and Bella to medal they will have to compete their best and end up in the top three. Regardless of what place they end up in, competing at the state level is an accomplishment in itself.”

This is the first time for both Copeland and Stulting to qualify for state.

“I’m not nervous, not at all,” Copeland said. “I trust myself and my coaches. I just hope to perform my best. I could hold my phases longer and tweak my third phase landing to do better though.”

Copeland will be competing in the triple jump, while Stulting will be competing in discus.

 “My only goal has been to get to state, at this point, state is like a victory lap,” Stulting said. “I would be happy just throwing a new PR, my current PR is 170 feet seven inches. I’m going and I’m gonna have fun.”

Vay agrees with Stulting, and hopes the athletes enjoy their experience.

“What you have accomplished this season and throughout your career can’t be put into words,” Vay said. “As your coach, I’m proud, not only of your athletic achievements, but who each of you are as people. Take this opportunity and enjoy the experience. Stay focused, but relaxed, go compete and have some fun.”