Salute To Seniors: A.J. Hampton - Wharton High School


The 2017-2018 school year has provided some great highlights in both cross country and track across the Sunshine State. In the coming weeks many of our seniors will head out to start their college careers both athletically and academically. We wanted to salute them one more time in this special feature and say thank you for your support over the years.

Today we salute Wharton High School senior A.J. Hampton.

What was your most memorable race?

My most memorable race moment was when I won regionals in the 400. I was able to do it despite Coach Tate not being there to coach me on (he was out of town for family reasons).

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


 I think my biggest competition over the past four years would have to be myself. Reason being is because I always had to find a way to push a little harder each race to get a new personal record. Also, battling an injury mid-way through my junior year caused me to work harder and cherish every moment on the track.

What was your greatest accomplishment?

My greatest accomplishment would have to be reaching my personal best in the 400,(47.53) and officially being the fastest member in my family.

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

If I had the chance to go back and change something about my running career; I wouldn't change anything because in my mind everything happens for a reason.

What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

My most difficult obstacle was overcoming my avulsion hip fracture and working back to get stronger and faster.

What will you miss the most?

I will  miss practicing with my teammates and competing to be the best in everything will do. Also, I will miss Coach Tate's motivational speeches before hard practices.

What advice you would give to younger athletes?

The advice I would give to younger athletes is to never take time off and leave any doubt in your mind that you didn't give it your all.

What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?

Coach Tate taught me how yo set goals and achieve them through hard work and determination. Also, he taught me how to be a leader and role model to younger teammates.

What are your college plans?

My college plans are to play football at Northwestern University and major in mechanical engineering.

Who would you like to say thank you to?

I would like to say thank you to God, both of my parents Alonzo and Yolanda Hampton, and both of my track coaches, Coach Tate and LoJacono for always pushing me beyond my limits and making me reach for greatness.

Seniors, don't be left out! Submit your Salute to Seniors answers to Todd.Grasley@flosports.tv and be featured on the site!