By Jessica Hoerter
As the outdoor track and field season kicks off, Raegan Cox, a senior at Marion Senior High School, prepares for her final season representing the Scarlet Hurricane track program.
Cox’s journey over the past four years has been marked by perseverance and triumph, overcoming injuries and setbacks to culminate in pursuit of a top-three place in the high jump at the VHSL Class 2 Outdoor Track State Championships in June.
Following a fifth-place finish in the high jump with a jump of 4 foot, 10 inches at the VHSL Class 1 / 2 indoor state championships last month in Lynchburg, Cox enters the season with determination and purpose, poised for one last opportunity to leave an even greater mark on the Marion track and field program.
Cox’s path from a hesitant middle-schooler to a seasoned senior high jumper epitomizes resilience and dedication.
Initially reluctant and favoring long-distance running, Cox was introduced to the high jump by her seventh-grade coach.
Despite her initial disinterest, she soon discovered her talent for the event, igniting a passion that defined her high school career.
Reflecting on her journey, Cox recalls, “I started my seventh-grade year wanting to do long-distance since that’s what my mom did in high school, but my coach forced me to do high jump. I hated it until I learned I was actually good at it. Since then, I’ve loved it.”
Transitioning to high school, Cox suffered a season-altering hip injury during her freshman year. Though she only participated in a couple of meets, she refused to be sidelined. Regrouping, she returned stronger the following year, learning to listen to her body and to prioritize her health.
Cox reflects, “My worst injury was freshman year when I hurt my hip. It taught me to listen to my body and doctors and not push myself if I’m uncomfortable, even if a coach asks me to.”
Despite her limited participation, Coach Tim Smith recognized Cox’s potential.
“Raegan had a lower back/hip injury as a freshman that caused her to miss the last half of her outdoor season,” says Coach Smith. “At that time, she was jumping 4 foot, 4 inches, and we knew she had a lot of potential.”
As Cox embarks on her final high school season, she has a mix of emotions. However, buoyed by her best indoor season, she’s determined to replicate her success in outdoor track. When asked about her preparations, Cox plans to rely on what has worked for her the past two seasons.
“I plan on doing the same as usual. As for the preseason, we are focusing more on muscle growth in the weight room and plyometric workouts. Then, as the season progresses, form work will be the focus,” elaborates Cox, emphasizing her trust in Coach Smith, who has coached her all four years at Marion. “My season peak always comes at the most important meets when he says they will, so I trust him, the process, and do as he asks.”
Accustomed to entering meets as the one to beat in the high jump, Cox emphasizes the importance of enjoying the experience with her teammates.
“The pressure of being ranked to win can take the fun out of meets. I’ve found that the best way to prepare is to stay out of my own head by having fun with my teammates,” remarks Cox.
Coach Smith speaks highly of Cox’s ability to handle pressure, stating, “She’s good about focusing on what she can control and not worrying about the competition too much. We try to have a good practice plan to keep her fresh but not rusty.”
Beyond the high jump, Cox also excels in triple and long jumps, showcasing her versatility as an athlete.
According to Coach Smith, Cox’s athleticism is evident as she competes. Cox maintains focus during the season by prioritizing rest and injury prevention.
“Maintaining my motivation and focus has never been hard for me. I love jumping, and I love practicing for it, which makes it easy. Taking fun days away from the track, sleeping plenty, and taking care of any minor injuries are ways I prevent burnout,” explains Cox, highlighting her confidence in her training and herself.
Cox credits Coach Smith for his unwavering support and guidance throughout her high school career, attributing her development as an athlete to his coaching style and training methods.
Cox states, “I rely very much on Mr. Smith during meets to help me stay relaxed and on task. He reminds me of the basics of what I need to do to jump well and reminds me not to overthink it…I think it’s just the fact that I trust what he says that helps me succeed. He’ll video or watch my jumps. Tell me what to fix, and I fix that next job. It works for us. I also trust his training methods as my season peak always comes at the most important meet when he says they will, so I trust him, and I trust the process and do it as he asked.”
Looking toward the future, Cox’s commitment to UVA Wise marks the beginning of a new chapter in her athletic journey. Cox signed a letter of intent on Feb. 1 at Marion Senior High School with her parents, Coach Smith, and close friends. With expectations tempered by the desire for a balanced college experience, Cox is prepared to tackle the challenges of collegiate athletics while pursuing her academic goals.
She remarks, “I chose UVA Wise because they prioritize both academics and athletics. I expect to be like any other college student, with extra responsibilities and opportunities.”
She will miss competing with familiar faces but is ready to move on.
Cox expresses, “Going into my last high school season is bittersweet. I’ll miss competing with familiar faces, but I’m also ready to move onto the next level and gain new experiences.”
Reflecting on Cox’s development over the years and her transition to competing in college, Coach Smith highlights her natural athleticism, coachability, and work ethic as key strengths. He expresses confidence in Cox’s ability to succeed at the collegiate level.
Smith remarks, “Reagan is not only a collegiate-level jumper, she’s also a great person. She will find success in anything she wants.”
Cox’s achievements extend beyond athletics; she is also an outstanding student. Cox is a member of Marion Senior High School’s Beta Club and juggles challenging AP classes and college coursework. She was also selected as the DAR Good Citizen essay winner for MSHS and Smyth County, exemplifying her commitment to both academics and athletics.
As Cox prepares to take her final jumps as a high school athlete this season, her legacy as a dedicated competitor and teammate is already assured. With her sights set on new horizons, Cox’s track career at Marion Senior High School serves as inspiration for aspiring athletes throughout Smyth County. No matter what happens in June, Cox’s legacy and influence in the Marion Senior High School track program will resonate for years to come.
