Throughout the summer, we will be honoring graduating seniors with our annual Salute to Seniors series! To submit your own questionnaires to be posted on the front page of PennTrackXC, check outthis page and email your responses to Dan Beck (daniel.beck@flosports.tv)
Today we salute Lyric Janosik from Penn Cambria.
Janosik had an impressive career in the jumps, racking up personal bests of 18-9.5 in the long jump, 36-8.75 in the triple jump, and 5-3 in the high jump. She was a three-time state medalist outdoors, earning a best of third in the long jump last year as a junior in AA.
The Penn State recruit reflected on her career for PennTrackXC.
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What was your most memorable race/competition?
My most memorable race/competition was the Altoona Igloo Invitational 2019 when I became the record holder for long jump.
Where did you face your biggest competition?
I faced my biggest competition at Penn Relays, but states was definitely competitive as well. Pennsylvania has some insanely talented athletes!
Out of all your high school accomplishments, what stands out the most?
Out of all my high school accomplishments, the one that stands out most is being the District 6 champion for long jump in 2019
If you could do it all over again, what would you change about your athletic career in high school?
If I could do it all over again, I don't think I would change anything about my high school career. I think all that happened and every medal I earned happened for a reason. If anything, it would be not having the inevitable shin pain after long meets haha
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The most difficult obstacle I had to overcome was a mental block. This was due to me being ranked 1st in the state for long jump in 2019, but I unfortunately did not claim the title. I was blessed to have placed 3rd, but it didn't sit right at first. I then got a new perspective, and it gave me more motivation to work even harder for senior year and so on.
What will you miss the most?
The thing I will miss most is the team bonding, and the competitive energy on the track during states. That feeling is unmatched.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
The advice I have for young athletes is to never take a day on the track for granted. Compete in every meet like it's your last because you never know when it could be taken from you.
How have your coaches influenced your performances and your life goals overall?
My coaches have influenced my performances and life goals by seeing the potential and special qualities in me and always cheering me on. The support they gave will never go unnoticed.
What are your post-high school plans?
My post high school plans are to attend Penn State University to continue my Track and Field career while studying marketing, with plans to future attend law school!
Any shoutouts?
I'd like to give a huge shoutout to my family, God, trainers and past and future coaches, because without their support, I wouldn't have the opportunities I do today.
