Salute to Seniors: Wave 1

Today we are starting our Salute to Seniors series with four talented athletes from around the state. If you are a senior and would like to take part, or know one who would, CLICK HERE for instructions on how to take part!


Name: Jillian Thomlison 

School: Northwest High School 


Q: What does your training look like right now given the current situation?

A: Nothings changed, expect I'm working out by myself rather than with my team.


Q: What are you doing to stay busy other than run right now?

A: I'm trying to do as much homework as possible, even though it's super boring. I've been filing out scholarships and playing on my switch.


Q: What was your most memorable race/moment?

A: my mom at memorable race was last year at districts, I fell with 75 meters left in the race and still qualified for sectionals. 

Q: What was the funniest thing that happened during your running career?

A: Getting all of our coach's to high jump

Q: Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?

A: Definitely my teammate, Kaitlyn Bell, who graduated last year. She and I did all the same events and she pushed me to do better.

Q: What was your greatest accomplishment?

A: Qualifying for junior Olympics in the 400m hurdles 

Q: If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?

A: I wish I would of had the same work ethic freshman, sophomore, and junior year as I do now. I realized after my junior season this was my last chance and I had to make it count. And now I'm kicking myself for wasting my time and not putting 100% in always.

Q: What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

A: My most difficult obstacle was myself, I didn't have a lot of motivation my first few seasons. I wish I was always as motivated as I am now because I would of had a better career overall.

Q: What will you miss the most?

A: The team.

Q: What advice would you give to younger athletes?

A: Always put 100% because you never know what you'll regret, or if you'll have another chance. 

Q: What kind of an impact has your coach had on you and your team?

A: My coaches have made a huge difference for me and the team. They are always so encouraging and want nothing but the best for us. I absolutely love them to death.

Q: What are your college plans?

A: I plan on attending Missouri State University, and hopefully trying out for the track team.

Q: Who would you like to say 'thank you' to?

A: I want to say thank you to my mom, for supporting me through everything and always being my voice of reason. And second I want to thank Coach Carey for showing me the potential I didn't know I had, and to never give up.

Q: Is there anything else you'd like to add?

A: nope :))