By Hayden Swope

Jayda Kelly, a track athlete at Andover, knew she wanted to take every opportunity to put her talents to use. Already holding a league title this year, Kelly is now striving for state. 

“My biggest goal for this season, honestly, was to use every opportunity on the track to glorify God,” Kelly said. “I wanted to make sure that I didn’t take this season for granted because there are so many kids around the world who may not have the option to participate in sports. This year I’ve really focused on reminding myself that every time I step on the track I get to worship God with the gift He gave me, which is such a blessing.” 

Being a senior at Andover and making school history has been Kelly’s favorite memory of the spring season so far.  

“The most memorable moment of this season has been becoming the league champion in the open 400 and then winning league as a girls team for the first time in Andover girls track and field history since 2000,” Kelly said. “I’m surrounded by the most hardworking deserving team and they truly are the best support system to have by my side.”

Besides the track, Kelly could be found volunteering or helping out around the community. 

“During my time at Andover I was fortunate to be a member of Kids for Kids Club, Senior Link Crew, Multi Ethnic Student Advisory Council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Young Life, Band, Varsity Basketball as well as Cross Country,” Kelly said.

Kelly will continue to run track after high school, as well as further her education in college.  

“I’ve committed to Oral Roberts University to run track and field at the Division I level and pursue a double major in International Business and Spanish,” Kelly said.