Brianna Campbell / The Collegian
Latrisha’s goal is to work hard to achieve personal and team accolades
Through all the accolades, awards, national and conference recognitions, Fresno State track and field athlete Latrisha Jordan has maintain a level head.
Always quick to share the glory, the reigning Western Athletic Conference (WAC) Freshman of the Year knows what it takes to work hard and stay humble in the meantime.
This may seem expected from any athlete, but considering what the sophomore sensation has already accomplished in her career as a Bulldog.
Last season, Jordan took home All-American honors en route to her 400-meter hurdles eighth place finish, in the 2009 National Championships. Jordan also holds the Fresno State record in the event, with a time of 58.14.
Jordan’s dominance in the 400-meter hurdles, however, remains second tier to her favorite event””the 4×400 meter relay.
“It’s like a team thing,” Jordan said. “There’s a girl on our team, Tiera Hilliard, she’s just as fast as me, but I just feel like when I’m in the 4×4 it’s not just me. It’s everyone, and they want to win so bad. And the competition, I love when we’re behind a little bit and it’s me chasing the girl and winning.”
Jordan’s success in 2009 may just be a prelude for her potential in years to come. She and the ‘Dogs track and field squad will test their early season speed tonight in Seattle, Wash. for day one of the Husky Classic, an indoor meet.
Q & A
Q: How long have you competed in track and field and what initially got you into the sport?
A: I started my junior year of high school. What got me going was we had to run the mile once a week for dance class, and I didn’t want to run the mile. The coaches, ever since I was in elementary school, were like, ‘Oh, if you sign up for track you’ll be fast.’ Since I didn’t want to run the mile they said if I signed up for track I wouldn’t have to run the mile.
Q: As an All-American performer last season, what kind of leadership do you feel you have to bring to the team this season?
A: I need to hold the same standards, if not do better and work hard, stay humble, be modest and help others who want to do as well as me.
Q: What are a few of your goals this upcoming season?
A: To be an All-American again, and to win WAC. And just work hard.
Q: What is your favorite part about being a Fresno State student-athlete?
A: My priorities, and to represent the school. I like to show people that Fresno State is worth something. Not only are we students, but we’re athletes. We can do both.
Q: Aside from track, what are some of your hobbies?
A: Basketball, texting and going home. I love being home.
Q: What did you do in the offseason to prepare for the upcoming season?
A: I actually practiced. Normally I don’t really practice. But this offseason I did.