Bloom has produced some quality jumpers in recent years. Jalen Bowen is the next one up
High Jump-
2018 State Champion: Brandon Ellis (Gurnee Warren) 6-10
Key Athletes: Antonio Buchanan (Sr., Champaign Centennial), Michael Shafis (Sr., Prospect), Alexander Babbington (Sr., Plainfield East), David Lehenbauer (Sr., Lemont), Marquis Kennedy (Sr., Chicago [Brother Rice]), Jonah Walton (So., Hoffman Estates), Pryce Giwa-Osagie (Sr., Metea Valley), Jalen Bowen (Sr., Chicago Heights [Bloom Twp.]), Isaiah Tyler (Jr., Maywood [Proviso East]), Aiden Oliver (Jr., Normal Community), Alekxander Crawford (Sr., St. Charles East), Keylen Williams (Sr., Oswego East)
Breakdown: If last May in Charleston showed us anything, the high jump is unpredictable. Two-time defending state champion, Camron Donatlan of West Aurora, was attempting a trifecta but fell to a disappointing fourth place.
Entering the 2019 campaign, Alex Babbington is looking for his big break. He has been on the scene since his sophomore year threatening to be a big boss. To enhance the top performer spot, Babbington enjoyed an excellent summer that netted All-American honors with a 6'8.75" clearance at the USATF Junior Olympics.
Michael Shafis has been on the scene before and finally enters his senior campaign. The Knights jumper has been on the podium each of his first three years of high school, is this the year he gets to the top of the podium?
Keep an eye out for Antonio Buchanan as he enters the season with the second best-returning jump in 3A. He had a tough showing at state last year but will look to bounce back strong in order to get that gold around his neck.