Coach Wheeler told us, "Josie is a junior this school year. She has earned 21 gold medals this track season. Also, she has broken her own school record that she set last year in the 100 meter dash. She broke this record at the Adrian track meet last week setting a new record of 12.53. Josie was a part of the 4x200 meter relay team that broke the school record at Archie on Monday.
The new record is 1:51.39. The previous record was set in 1992 in which Josie's mother, Jennifer (Hellebuyck) Parks was a member of that relay team. Josie has great work ethic and is determined to do her best each and every day whether it be in the classroom or athletics. Josie is a great teammate. She is encouraging, supportive, and has high expectations for her team.
Josie not only excels on the track but also in the classroom. She is a member of the National Honor Sociery. Josie is a multi sport athlete and has played an important role in all Drexel girls sports teams. Josie has has had a lot of success so far and we asked her how she continued to stay motivated to get better and improve. She stated, “I have to give a lot of credit to my teammates.
Without them I wouldn't be where I am today. We push each other to be the best we can and perform to the best of our abilities. It really does go a long way.” We asked her to state what it takes to be an elite athlete. She replied with, "determination.
You have to have a lot of focus and dedication. There is so much commitment when you're an athlete." Finally, we asked Josie what advice she has for younger athletes. She said, "focus on your grades and make sure you're excelling in your classroom. Also, always push your teammates and yourself. Just have fun." Josie's favorite memory with track has been winning a state championship. Congratulations Josie! We wish you and your team the best of luck finishing this track season.
Pictured left to right: Kellie Davidson, State Farm; Josie Parks, daughter of Drew and Jennifer Parks; Coach Jenny Wheeler; Coach Gary Griffin; Baylie Pitts, State Farm.
