Keeping his eyes focused directly ahead, he tries to tune out the cheering of the supportive fans around him. As he positions his feet just right, the spikes of his cleats sink into the track beneath him. As every muscle in his body pulsates and flexes, he takes one final deep breath and begins his run. After every step his speed increases. His body finally makes the turn, accelerates upwards and arches over the bar positioned seven feet in the air. The crowd cheers with enthusiasm for the state champion high jumper, senior Logan Brittain.

                After many wins at the high school level, Logan has been invited to continue his track career at a division one university. Logan received notification that he would be offered a scholarship to the University of Texas to participate on the track team. Despite multiple scholarship offers to other schools, Logan chose to attend UT and is preparing to move to Austin in the fall of this year.

                “[I chose to attend UT because of] the campus and the life in Austin,” Logan said. “When I went on my visit the guys on the [track] team were really cool and I got along with them very well.”

                Logan said although he is excited, many new changes will come with his transition to Austin.

                “I am mainly nervous about the work outs I am going to be introduced to,” Logan said.

                The transition will also require Logan to move away from his parents, something he has never done before; however, Logan said he isn’t nervous about leaving.

                “I am not too worried about [leaving my parents],” Logan said. “I’m sure there will be times that I wish they were there though.”

                Not only is Logan’s new life in college going to affect him, but Carla Brittain, Logan’s mother, also said she is nervous for Logan to leave.

                “Texas is a very big school and Austin is a very big city,” Carla said. “But I know [Logan] will adjust.”

                Carla said despite her worries she is very excited for Logan and his future at UT.

                “[Logan] gets to go to a college he loves and participate in the sport he loves,” Carla said. “You can’t ask for anything better than that.”

                Carla said Logan has always been a fan of UT and has always desired to go to school at the university. Logan said his aspirations at UT include making good grades and competing well on the track team.

                “I’m excited about getting to compete and participate at the college level,” Logan said. “My goals are to be successful in track and do good in school so I can have an opportunity for a good job after college.”