After anchoring the 4x100-meter relay to the top time of the prelims (44.07) and qualifying third in the 100 meters (11.44), sophomore Marshevet Hooker won the Texas Relays long jump with a leap of 21-10 (6.65m). The distance was just a quarter of an inch off Nicole Devonish's school record set in 1996. The San Antonio native took a break from her hectic day to speak with www.TexasSports.com about her day, the Texas team and the Texas Relays.
On being a team leader: I don't think of myself as a leader. I just try to motivate my teammates. I know what everyone is capable of on this team and I want them to do their best. I'll assume that role, but I don't want to take it to the point where I'm telling everybody what to do.
On the Texas Relays bringing out the best in the team: Coach Kearney talked to us about this being the first big outdoor meet of our season. We haven't even scratched the surface of where we are going to be. But, everybody is doing so well, which tells me that everyone was ready to go.
On her own performance: I think I'm doing really well, but there is room for improvement. I'm trying to use any suggestions that coach Kearney has and am willing to do whatever I need to do to get better.
On the tough workouts recently transferring to competition: Coach Kearney trains us far beyond what we need to do in a meet, so when we get to the meets, they are a breeze. Last year, I wouldn't have been able to compete in all these events. I just wouldn't have made it. But, now I'm ready to run.
On winning another Texas Relays title (she won two high school titles): It really hasn't set in yet. I'll probably think about it more tomorrow when I'm finished, but right now, I'm focusing on Saturday's events because it will be a whole other day.
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