Thomas Debelak Quaker Valley
What’s one moment in your career that made you realize how much you love the sport of track and field?
For my first two years of varsity track and field, I saw myself as just a football player who liked competing in track and getting faster. At the end of my sophomore year, I made a commitment to transfer to OLSH High School to become a better football player. When the track season ended, I broke the news to my teammates and coaches and told them my decision. As soon as we parted ways, I bawled—crying heavy tears as I walked away. All the amazing memories of track and field started rushing through my head, and that’s when I realized how much I actually love and appreciate the sport. Because of this moment, I rejected my offer to OLSH and decided to stay with the team and coaches who made me who I am today.
How does being part of a team influence your motivation and performance?
In my experience, I have highly competitive teammates who place at nationals, fun and silly teammates who make me laugh, and motivational teammates who pick me up whenever I have a bad meet.
When you’re on a team with these different types of athletes, it sets you up for success. I have friends who push me to get better every day, make me laugh when I’m feeling down, and tell me to keep going whenever I feel like giving up on myself.
What do you enjoy most about competing in the triple jump?
I enjoy it because it’s very unique and difficult to do—meaning it’s not something many people can understand or master. The fact that I understood how to triple jump on my first try, at an early age, makes me feel very special and talented.
https://www.vault-athletics.com/
Vault Athletics is one of the premier pole vault facilities in Pennsylvania. Founded and run by Tim Tray, the facility is built on his passion for giving back what he once received as a young athlete—top-quality equipment, expert knowledge, and personalized coaching. “I am excited to teach and mentor both beginner and experienced athletes in Track and Field, and I am thrilled to create a space dedicated to that mission!” says Tray.
Conveniently located in Irwin, just 10 minutes from Norwin High School, Vault Athletics welcomes athletes of all skill levels.
14700 US Route 30, North Huntingdon, PA 15642.
I’m excited to introduce a new feature called NixonTFXC Profiles. These profiles will include important information and statistics to help you promote yourself to other coaches in Track & Field/Cross Country. If you’re interested, you can contact me via Instagram, Twitter, or email at Karlon.nixon@gmail.com.
- One-time fee of $100 (2025 price), which covers your entire high school career and includes a NixonTFXC T-Shirt.
- Updates on the website to showcase your personal records and achievements.
- Monthly posts on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
This is recommended for Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors who are interested in pursuing Track & Field/Cross Country at the collegiate level.
NixonTFXC.com expires on October 7, 2025.
The renewal cost is $515 for two years.
A small donation to NixonTFXC can help upgrade the site and extend the domain. Your contribution is greatly appreciated.
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