Shyheim Wright, the defending Maryland 4A 55 meter hurdles state champ from Northwest High School, has found his future college. The returning New Balance Nationals Indoor 60 meter hurdles finalists and key member of a defending state champion track squad, Wright has verbally committed to the University of Pittsburgh to run track & field and plans to sign his National Letter of Intent in the approaching signing period.
The #3 returnee in the nation for the 55 meter hurdles with his 7.27 clocking from his state meet victory last February at PG, Wright shares with MileSplit Maryland why he decided on Pitt as well as looking ahead to the upcoming indoor track season.
Interview with Northwest's Shyheim Wright
How does it feel to finally be able to know where you are going to college next year?
It's such a great feeling, I've worked so hard my entire life for this moment and I can't thank you anyone but God and my loving mother.
What were the major factors for you to decide on Pitt?
Some of the things I took into consideration was the campus, I just fell in love with the campus. I loved the team and how they interacted amongst each other. I especially like the fact that the coaches care for you as a person first then as an athlete.
One of the top returning hurdles in state and 55 meter hurdles in nation, how excited are you for the indoor season to start?
I'm very excited I have been working out and preparing for the season. I can't wait. I'm counting down the days and can't wait to compete.
How special or how significant did that first state title last February mean to you in the 55 meter hurdles?
It was definitely special because I questioned myself. I really didn't think I could run to the caliber of my past races. I felt that I was the underdog considering the fact that others were expected to win. That's what makes the victory that much sweeter.
You were able to make the finals in the 60 hurdles at New Balance Nationals Indoor. What did you learn and gain from that experience?
That meet really humbled me because I realized that I was running with the best hurdles in the nation. I knew that I had to bring my "A" game and what I took from that meet was that anyone can be beat on any given day and your times don't determine what type of runner you are.
Do you feel after state meet outdoor didn't go as well for you that you are coming back for your senior year hungry and with something to prove?
Absolutely. I feel like every time I step on the track, I have something to prove. I have recovered from my injury and I've been training so hard to prepare for this season.
What are the goals for this indoor season?
My goals for this season is to work with my team to win another state championship. I personally want to become a state champion in the 55 hurdles, 300, and high jump.
What was your favorite part of the recruiting process and what advice would you give to other track & field athletes who have yet to go through the process?
My favorite part of the process was the official visit and getting to see the campus and meeting the team. My advice to future track and field athletes going through the process is that your first impression to a college coach lasts a long time, so make it a good one.
- Shyheim Wright's Athlete Profile
- Maryland's Class of 2016 Signings List
- Maryland's Top Indoor Track Returnees: Boys - Girls
