Girls Head Coach Andrew Schmitt noticed the consistency right away leading up to the state championship. Despite not winning the state title, he felt she was ready for the next level which was the New Balance Outdoor Nationals. No one outside of Illinois was aware of who Rowe was. Even the hallowed MileSplit National high jump preview by Jeff George left Rowe completely out of the mix. Fine. Rowe went in on a business trip and took care of business. She did not miss an attempt until she attempted 6-feet. Rowe missed on her three tries but earned a national championship. In the process she defeated four of the top five jumpers in the nation.
The goal of clearing six feet this season is real. Consider that only three girls in this state have done it outdoors: Daebelliehn, Reflaye Williams (Belleville East), and most recently Jena Hemann of Breese Mater Dei who was the last to accomplish the feat in 2011. Rowe would embark on her quest during her first meet of the season when she cleared 5'10". It should be noted that achieving the ultimate clearance is equivalent to eclipsing 7'4.25 if Rowe were a male. Finally, last weekend the Proviso East Lady Pirates Invite would be the site of history instead of the New Balance Indoor Nationals. On her second attempt she DID IT! 6-feet! "It felt really good and I was so happy," said a relieved Rowe. "I felt confident that I would clear six feet," added Rowe. As far as future heights are concerned she is ready: I did attempt 6'2" but I did not have enough runway speed." There are two meets left where Rowe can cement her immortal status but the ultimate goal is the state championship, repeating at NBON, and possibly this by Schmitt: "All I can tell you is Jelena is not nearly done this year. She just missed at 6-2 on her first attempt on Saturday and if history holds true with her training, I think 6-3 is possible outdoor."
