Today, we salute Eric Kirk of Coatesville.
Kirk closed out a strong career in the sprints for the Raiders. Kirk was apart of the fastest 4x100 meter relay squad in state history, which ran 40.99 to win the Class AAA state title in May. He was a multi-time state meet qualifier, both indoors and outdoors, and had PRs of 10.81 in the 100 meters and 22.06 in the 200 meters.
The Shippensburg University recruit reflected on his career below.
Throughout the end of June and through July we we be honoring our graduating seniors. To submit your own questionnaire to be posted on the front page of PennTrackXC, check out this page and email your responses to Dan Beck (daniel.beck@flosports.tv).
-------------
What was your most memorable race/competition?
My most memorable race/competition was winning the 4x100 state title this past season.The anticipation coming into the race was very high the whole season against a very good CD East team and being able to win it made it special.
Where did you face your biggest competition?
I faced my biggest competition outdoor states and district championships in the 100m my sophomore year.
Out of all of your high school accomplishments, which stands out the most?
Being a state champion in the 4x100 in 2017 for the first time and winning and breaking the 4x100 all-time state record (40.99) in 2019 and being apart of the first team in Pennsylvania history to run under 41 seconds. Winning the district team championship in 2018 after not winning one since 1977 and repeating in 2019.
If you could do it all over again, what would you change about your athletic career in high school?
I would change the way I approached practice and workouts my freshman and sophomore year instead of focusing on the sport more my last 2 years and take care of my body more during the season.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
Without a doubt, injury my senior year. I worked harder then I ever did in the weight room and workouts and did the small things to take it to another level before the outdoor season. Sitting out of practice for about a month and not being able to compete at 100% my senior year was a setback and downer mentally and not being able to run at some meets and states individually was hard to watch but coming into states I had to give all I had in the relay for my team.
What will you miss the most?
I'll miss the culture and tradition of Coatesville the most and training with close friends and the coaches. Competing at the meets in front of your home crowd and the atmosphere is something I'll never forget.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Cherish every moment with your teammates and pay attention to detail when your coaches coach you. Always go 110% every practice and you'll be successful.
How have your coaches influenced your performances and your life goals overall?
My coaches have greatly influenced my performances. Coach Henry recognized my talent in middle school and helped mold me to be the athlete I am.
What are your post-high school plans?
I will be continuing my academic and athletic career at Shippensburg University.
Any shoutouts?
Shout out to all my coaches, friends, family, and teammates from 9th-12th grade, without their support I wouldn't be who I am today.
