Class of 2014: Chance Stephens to Mississippi State

<p> Our series detailing where our Louisiana runners, jumpers, and throwers will be heading next year for the graduating class of 2014. Get a little insight into where they will be competing and what went into their decision to compete at the next level fort their respective choices. &nbsp;Not only will it be an interesting article for our Louisjana Running Milesplit viewers to read, but this series will also alert us and enable us to track you in the future for our series &quot;Louisiana Alumni&#39;s Report&quot;. &nbsp;Class of 2014 please consider participating!</p>

LRC: So Chance, what made you choose Mississippi State?

Chance: They showed a lot of interest in me early and the coaches saw potential in me to be a 6'10-7'0 foot jumper when I was only at 6'6 and they were right. Also after visiting the campus and meeting the teammates and coaches I knew it was the place for me. Also it doesn't hurt that my dad graduated from MSU.

LRC: Do you have any idea on what you plan on majoring in? If so, what and why?

Chance: I plan on majoring in kinesiology because I want to be a physical therapist. I have been through physical therapy twice and it seems like something I would want to do.

LRC: Congratulations on your recent indoor state championship! How does it feel?

Chance: The state championship feels amazing. I have been high jumping since 4th grade with that as one of my ultimate goals and to finally reach it is very rewarding.

LRC: Going off of my last question, did you train any differently from last year to this year? If so, what changes were made?

Chance: I did train a little differently this year. In the off season I really focused on the overall strength in my legs as well as explosion off the ground. I also focused a lot on my run up to the mat this year.

LRC: What are your goals for outdoor season, and how do you expect to accomplish them?

Chance: My first goal of my outdoor season is to help my team win our district, regional and state championships. Secondly I want to win an individual state championship as well as improve my PR and hopefully jump 7 feet by the end of the year. I plan on doing this by doing the one thing I can do which is work harder and focus on my technique and training.

LRC: What is a typical training regimen of a high jumper?

Chance: My typical regimen consists of doing actual jumping on the mat at least once or twice a week. Also my training consists of a lot of plyometrics and explosion drills and of course some running and a lot of ab work.

LRC: What do you want to contribute to the team at MSU?

Chance: When I get to MSU I just want to be a member of the team who contributes in some way. I would like to contribute by scoring in meets, especial conference meets. I also want to contribute by pushing my fellow high jump teammates by us competing with one another.

LRC: In regards to choosing a college, what advice do you have to upcoming seniors?

Chance: My advice to upcoming seniors about choosing a college would be to really explore your opinions. Visit campuses and make sure you really love the place where you will be for 4 years outside of sports. Also make sure to see if you and the coaches and players mesh well and that y'all all have similar goals and beliefs.

LRC: Who would you say is the most inspiring person in your life, and why?

Chance: The most inspirational person in my life definitely is my dad. His morals and the way he lives his life inspires me. Also he has been my coach since I began high jump in 4th grade and he has been at every meet to support me. He is the one who I see pounding on his chest telling me to have heart when I get down on myself in a meet. He inspires me everyday in both my life and in high jump to never become complacent but instead to strive to better myself everyday.

Thanks Chance!

<p> Are you running/jumping/throwing in college? Have we not added you to our series &quot;Class of 2014:Where are you going?&quot; &nbsp;Drop us an email at pat@louisianarunning.com including a picture of your signing (if you have one), where you will be competing, and in what event. Thanks!</p>