Tyrone Area is well known for having a good track team, specifically in the jumping events. From Charles Wilson-Adams to Erika Voyzey, Tyrone jumpers have a legacy in District 6 track. From the looks of a particular 8th grade jumper, that legacy is in good hands.

Tyrone Middle School student Nick Vasbinder dominated the the Laurel Mountain Middle School Track and Field Championships on Monday, May 9 2016, winning both the long and triple jumps with staggering leaps of 18’4.25″ and 39’2″ respectively.

Vasbinder also grabbed a second place in the high jump at 5’4″ and even showed some running talent as well, taking 4th in the 400 with a 58.48.

His performance was enough to garner both Jumper and Athlete of the Meet awards.

“I was really pleased with my performance,” remarked a very humble Vasbinder, “I was hoping to reach 40 feet in triple but it was still my best jump. When I won Athlete of the Meet I was honestly surprised; there were a lot of great competitors there. It was a real honor.”

Vasbinder’s success did not come as a surprise. He has been consistently jumping and running at a high level all season.

Junior High track coach Tammy Wills had plenty to say about the future varsity track star.

“He’s a really great kid, one of the nicest kids I’ve ever had the pleasure of coaching. His work ethic is unquestionable; you can’t get as far as he has based on talent alone. Varsity will be pleased to have him next year for sure,” said Wills.

As the season comes to an end and 17 senior athletes leave the Golden Eagle track team, Nick Vasbinder’s resounding performance is another indicator of the bright future that lies ahead.

Perhaps he will be yet another Tyrone PIAA gold medal winner.