Athlete Interview
Jeff DeRocher, senior, Dowling Catholic HS, West Des Moines
PR’s: 1600m – 4:28.09, 3200m – 9:28.12, 5k XC – 15:18
(photo from Twitter)
1. When & how did you get started in track & field?
I got started in track and field in 5th grade through Dowling’s grade school program. I was terribly slow, couldn’t jump or throw very far; so naturally they put me in the 1500m run.
2. Person/people most influential to your success in track & field?
Coach Tim Ives has definitely been the most influential person to my success in running. He has a great training program, and knows just how hard and when to push us. Also Coach Nick Vilotti and past coach Loran Storts have been great influences on my running success.
3. Your favorite track & field event(s)?
The 3200m run, because it takes me a few laps to get warmed up.
4. Your track & field event coach(es)?
Coach Tim Ives is our distance coach, and Coach Ray Metz is our team’s head coach.
5. Keys to your successful track & field training program?
The key to my success is the training atmosphere I have had over the past four years. We have so many guys that have put themselves completely into the program. They are great to train with because they make it easier to put in the work day in and day out.
6. Your favorite track & field meet(s)?
The Drake Relays. State was a close second last year, but Drake was an awesome experience.
7. Track & field athlete(s) you most enjoy competing against?
Obviously I like to race some of my teammates such as Jason Thomas, Spencer Clark and Brian Wahlig. But I also enjoy racing Ben Anderson throughout the season, and then other guys that we don’t see as much such as Caleb Drake and Mitch Pritts, just to name a few.
8. Most memorable experience in track & field so far?
I would have to say the State 3200m run my JR year, because it was my first time qualifying for the State meet. I did much better than I originally anticipated.
9. Greatest accomplishment(s) in track & field so far?
Placing 3rd in the 2012 State 3200m run; also qualifying for Drake in the 1600m and 3200m runs.
10. Goals for the 2013 track & field season?
My goal for the 2013 season is to be in the mix for the 3200m Drake and State titles.
11. If a senior, college/university you will attend, or schools you are considering?
I will be attending Iowa State University.
12. Long-term goals in track & field?
My goals in the long run are just to be a successful member of the Iowa State track and cross country teams, and be able to help them have a successful future.
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See Jeff’s IOWATFXC.COM webpage at https://ia.milesplit.com/athletes/1680420-jeff-derocher .