By Mackenzie Cutruzzula Sports Editor
The College is known for priding itself in its versatile student body — Chloe Yelle is no exception. The sophomore urban education and English double major can be seen representing the College on and off the track. As a College Ambassador and member of the women’s varsity track and field team, Yelle is proud to be a Lion.
“Whether it’s in class or outside of the campus, I know that, even when not literally, I am always wearing my Ambassador stripes and my uniform,” Yelle said. “I represent our school everywhere I go and I always want to do that well.”
Yelle was excited to represent the College over spring break when the team traveled to University of Miami for the Hurricane Invitational. Even far from home, her school pride shone bright helping her to be mentally focused on victory.
“I enjoyed doing well in the meet because that meant more recognition for our school outside of the local area,” Yelle said. “Being part of this team and this school is something to be proud of and I love showing that off.”
As a student-athlete, Yelle has found that having a team aspect in her college experience has the most rewarding part of her success so far. Having a close-knit group has provided her with support and role models while trying to figure out how to balance academics and athletics. Being part of the team as a freshman helped Yelle transition from high school to college by fine tuning her leadership and time management skills. That experience lead her to want to be a role model for freshmen in her shoes.
“I want freshmen athletes to know that the commitment is worth the time,” Yelle said. “And after you put in all that time, don’t be afraid to show what you’ve got just because you’re a freshman. It can be intimidating, but you made the team for a reason — embrace that.”
Yelle has embodied her advice and carried out the team’s long standing tradition of excellence as a freshman in the spring of 2015. Earning All-NJAC Second Team in discus throw with a toss of 38.33 meters, Yelle wasn’t afraid of hard work. Her dedication paid off, taking home second in the discus, the toss that earned her All-NJAC honors, and fifth in the shot put with a mark of 11.22 meters. Beyond these events she’s never been hesitant to take on new challenges. Having always participated in the shot put and discus, she was excited to learn two new events entering the collegiate level — hammer throw and weight throw.
Yelle wants to give 150 percent this year in order to improve the events she knows well and more so, to fine-tuning the events that are newer to her. As a freshman, Yelle bested her personal records from high school, but is not content just yet. She has her sights set on higher marks and is looking to get better at every practice.
Yelle believes in leading by example and her hard work does not go unnoticed. Yelle represents the true spirit of the College because she doesn’t wait for opportunity — she is constantly seeking it.
