Kenzie Henderson: True Blue Mountaineer


Kenzie Henderson has excelled in a few events, but none more so than the long jump. Photo by Alan Versaw.

Kenzie Henderson's Best Marks:

200 Meters: 27.52

300 Meter Hurdles: 48.63

High Jump: 5-2

Long Jump: 16-10.5

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Tell us about the factors the played into the Western State decision. What all made that the right decision for you?

There were a few factors that helped me make the decision to attend Western and compete for the Mountaineers. The main reason is that I love the opportunities that college provides. It's a smaller school, which is what feels most comfortable for me. I am confident I will receive a great education. Another reason is the quality track and field program Coach Bradford has. He and his coaches made me feel like I will fit in well. I look forward to becoming a Mountaineer. The fact that I'm not far from home also helped me decide on WSCU. I want to watch my younger sister and brother grow up and compete in sports over the next bunch of years.

Do you have a planned course of study at Western yet?

I intend to pursue Elementary Education at Western and hopefully become a quality teacher and coach someday. Both of my parents are teachers, which has been an inspiration for me.

You also play volleyball. Did you have collegiate opportunities in that sport as well?

I did not receive any collegiate opportunities in volleyball. Only being around 5-7 would make for a huge challenge at the next level. I will say that volleyball made me a better all-around athlete and gave me competitive opportunities that I will always cherish.

You've been high jumping since you were a freshman but only recently started featuring the long jump. What's the story behind that?

I tried long jump in 8th grade a few times, jumping 15-10, but I had to wait until my knee was healed to try it again in high school. Last year I was looking for a new event, decided to try it out again, and ended up loving it. It's also nice to have a great long jump coach in Derek Kehmeier.

If you had to pick a favorite highlight of your high school career to date, what would that be?

My favorite highlight of my high school career would have to be winning the state championship in high jump. The day before, my dad said that particular event is so complicated that anything can happen. I knew I was not expected to win, so I just competed with nothing to lose. It happened that I had my best day when it counted most. It was a great feeling to see the excitement from my family and friends, and especially my high jump coach, Mike Morgan. He's an amazing coach. Before my grandpa died in October of 2014, he gave me his state championship medals from 1963. Looking at those every day has inspired me. He's the first person I thought of when I won.

Since you don't play basketball, I'm guessing you're already starting into track and field mode. Do you already have any goals in mind for the spring?

I am looking forward to the upcoming season. I've been lifting weights for the first time in three seasons, so I'm hopeful that will pay off. My one goal for spring is to work hard, stay healthy, and compete. I know I can't go wrong with that.