Senior spotlight is an attempt to let athletes tell as much of their own story as we can. We want to take a look into some of the things that make them tick. If you are a senior who was top 10 in Georgia last year in your event and want to be featured, send an email to milesplitga@gmail.com
Here we've got Veronika Babbitt from Athens Academy for a Senior spotlight moment:
What are your high school PR's so far?
Shot put - 13.01m, Discus -138'4 ft
What are your college plans, if you have them figured out?
I am committed to Stanford University and will be attending this upcoming fall. I am unbelievably excited!
What's your most memorable competition or attempt that you're most proud of?
The 2A State Meet in 2023, when I was a sophomore, was a memorable competition for me. My friend and competitor, Shelby Speed, really pushed me towards my best at this meet and both of us ended up obtaining new PRs. We fostered a healthy rivalry and it was so fun to have someone who both challenged and cheered me on.
What has been your biggest challenge in high school or what has been the hardest obstacle to overcome?
My first two years of high school I dealt with a lot of performance anxiety. It was an obstacle that made it difficult for me to compete and made meets less enjoyable, but my coaches, family, and teammates have worked with me, especially this past season, to find ways for me to overcome my anxiety and accomplish my goals.
What is your typical warm up routine and/or weight room routine like?
My warm up consists of some jogging and agilities. I typically weight lift 3-4 times a week and mainly focus on Olympic lifts along with bench and squat. I've set a goal to try and achieve a one handed chin up by this summer, so chin-ups have become a frequent supplemental exercise!
What do you think is the biggest part of training that has helped you achieve success?
I think consistency and good quality training over quantity are two key aspects I have tried to follow with my training that have set me up for success. I've found that it's ok to take a day off if I'm not feeling well rather than learn to push through, because rest is equally important. But I've made sure to balance my rest with a good 4-5 training sessions in which I push myself and get my reps in.
What is your all time favorite thing to do in training?
My favorite aspect of training is during the school season I have a good group of training partners. Throughout the rest of the year I typically train alone so I really enjoy having the time to not only get better each day at practice, but do it alongside my friends! But a specific thing I like to do in training is to have an "overhead throws" competition during shot-put practice and try to beat all the guys.
What is your least favorite or hardest thing to do in training?
I don't necessarily have a least favorite thing, but sometimes Coach Patterson will make us do a bunch of burpees during the warmup and that can be pretty challenging.
Who do you have to thank for your success?
I have my coaches and parents to thank! My coaches have given me countless opportunities to not only better my marks but also learn how to become a true competitor and leader. My High school athletic experience would not be the same without their support and effort put towards my career. As for my parents, they have shown me unwavering physical and emotional support throughout my years in high school that I am continuously thankful for!
Who do you look up to the most in your event?
Two people I look up to the most in my event are Mykolas Alekna and Marc Minichello. They both are humble, hard working athletes, but I admire them both the most for their resilience and determination to come back stronger after setbacks. Watching their throwing careers has helped me guide my own.
What gets you pumped up for a training session or competition?
Music! Listening to my favorite playlist is an essential part of my training and competition routine. A small dance break never hurts.
What is your favorite food and/or movie and/or TV show and/or song?
Favorite Food - Matcha Lattes
Movie - Dune 2
Song - Like A Boy by Ciara
What will you miss the most about high school?
The community at Athens Academy is something I'll definitely miss. Whether it is on the track or in the classroom I feel like my teachers and peers are my family, and growing up in this environment has helped shape me into the person I am today. I hope everyone can experience the love and support Athens Academy provides.
What advice would you give your younger self?
To not be afraid of failure. Failure is still a step in the process towards success.
