By Hannah Ossman

Kaylen Mills is a junior on the Newkirk High School track and field team, and she is looking forward to reaching new heights during her last year of high school. 

Kaylen participates in pole vaulting for her team, and this is her second year doing that. She was excited to get back into it this year, since her sophomore season was cancelled due to the pandemic last year. The goals she has set for herself this year are to set a new PR of nine feet and qualifying for state.

Every student athlete enjoys their sport for different reasons. For Kaylen, she enjoys the competition aspect of the sport. 

“I love competing against myself as well as others every day,” said Kaylen. 

She also enjoys the friendships she has with her teammates and all the memories they have made together over the years. 

Over her time competing in pole vaulting, Kaylen has made many memories and has achieved many great things. Her biggest accomplishments have been qualifying for state her freshman year and setting a new PR this year of eight foot eight inches. 

Kaylen’s role model is her coach, Coach Marks. 

“Since my freshman year she has always been my biggest motivator. She has high expectations and knows how to push me to be my best,” said Kaylen. 

Aside from pole vaulting, some other activities Kaylen participates in include basketball, softball, choir, FCA, and NHS. She also enjoys weightlifting and going out to eat Chinese food with her friends. 

Kaylen is looking forward to her senior year and enjoying her last year of high school with her friends and teammates. 

Kaylen also has advice for any students who may want to participate in track: “It takes hard work and extra time. You have to put in more time than just at track practice if you want to be better.”