James Wood High School 17-year-old junior
Sport: Track & field. Main events: Shot put and discus
Parents: Julie Johnson and Aaron Clark
Hometown: Winchester
What do you love about track & field?: The opportunity to be around other athletes and also friends, and just that it’s a sport that you can challenge yourself in to continuously get better.
Most memorable moment in track & field: I would say [at the Rocktown Raptors Invitational], when I threw over 40 feet in shot put. I’ve been trying to chase it for a while, and I was finally able to achieve it.
Most difficult moment in track & field: When I wasn’t staying as consistent with discus and it was challenging to start to progress and get better with it. I think this year I’ve progressed a little bit. I’m getting there.
Most embarrassing moment in track & field: Also when I was throwing discus, there was one time where I released it and it started rolling all the way down the hill.
Three people you can have dinner with, dead or alive: Shane Gillis is one, because he’s my favorite comedian. Also Ryan Crouser, because he’s the world record holder for shot put. And I would say Stephen Curry because he’s my favorite athlete.
Biggest athletic influence: Stephen Curry, just for his persistency, for how much he’s done and his ability to stay consistent. He’s one of the people where I’ve heard him say when there’s a bad day, you just have to take it as it is and just give yourself positive self-talk.
Favorite teacher: Mr. [Paul] Hvozdovic, or Mr. H. I’d pick him because of his character. He’s always positive, and he just wants his students to just progress in all sorts of ways. I have him for digital and social media marketing this year.
Favorite athlete: Stephen Curry
Favorite team: Washington Commanders
Favorite movie: “Deadpool & Wolverine”
Favorite TV show: “The Office”
Favorite song: “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers
Favorite food: Chili
Worst thing you’ve eaten: A mussel
Plans after high school: I would like to attend a college, possibly for throwing if I can get to that level. I’m not exactly sure [what I want to study]. I’ve tried to put thought into it, but I don’t have a solidified thing. I think it would be something technology-related, because I like dealing with technology. I like being able to see how advanced stuff can and has become.
— Compiled by Joe Tuman