Jalen Rhodes
Contributing Writer
Sophomore Jalen Bailey, a Sport Management major at East Stroudsburg University, and started running track when he was eight years old. His love for the sport has grown as he has gotten older, and he enjoys the competition that comes with it.
“I love track and field because it is an outlet option for me to showcase my talents,” says Bailey.
Originally from Wilmington, DE., Bailey attended Alexis I DuPont High. There, he was a two-time state champion in hurdles as well as a two-time national champion in relay events.
Bailey’s passion for sports grew throughout high school. As a multisport athlete, Bailey played football and basketball, in addition to running track and field.
In his Junior year, Bailey focused primarily on track in order to help his team reach and win the state championship.
After an impressive high school career bailey had a number of colleges and universities reach out to him with offers, including East Stroudsburg University.
“I picked ESU because I heard of the success they had in their hurdlers and I only wanted to get better”, Bailey told the Courier. “Not only was the far enough distance from home that I can still see my family when needed but, this school just felt right”.
In his freshman year at ESU, Bailey put up outstanding numbers. He tied the freshman indoor hurdle record set in 2007, broke the record for the freshman 4×200 meter relay and broke the freshman record for the indoor 200 meters; 4th all-time in school history. Bailey also became a Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) champion in the 4×100 meter relay and an NCAA Provisional Indoor Qualifier.
“I enjoy going to practice because that it’s only going to make me better and there is so much more I’d like to accomplish within this sport,” Bailey said.
He has already set a new personal record this season and hopes to set a new one at the next big meet tomorrow on Staten Island.
Despite breaking his toe this past summer, Bailey’s goal is to qualify for nationals for indoor hurdles this season.
Bailey’s success outside of the classroom has not prevented him from excelling inside as well. He made the Dean’s List last semester and plans to maintain his work ethic.
“My schoolwork comes before anything, I wouldn’t be where I am right now if I wasn’t focused on my books,” Bailey said.
Although Bailey is still unsure of what he’d like to do after college, he is certain he wants to work in the sports industry.
In his free time, Bailey enjoys shooting hoops and playing video games.
College athletics has taught him self-discipline and has provided him with access to more resources. Athletically he hopes to get stronger and faster and leave his mark on the track.
Email Jalen at:
Jrhodes4@live.esu.edu
