A dedicated ESPNHS team managed the Gatorade State Boys Track & Field Athlete of the Year selection process, resulting in winners based on the program's three pillars: athletic production and impact in the 2012 season, high academic achievement and exemplary personal character.
For his 50 fellow Gatorade State Boys Track & Field Athletes of the Year winners, click here.
THE WINNER: Tyler Rohde
THE BASICS
School: Chugiak (Alaska)
Grade: Junior
Event(s): Hurdles
Height: 5-foot-11
THE PILLARS
Athletic achievement: Rohde won the 110-meter hurdles with a state-record time of 14.61 seconds and the 300-meter hurdles in 39.34 at the Class 4A state meet this spring, leading the Mustangs to third place as a team. Named Class 4A Most Outstanding Competitor, he ran the lead leg for the 4x400-meter relay squad that broke the tape in 3:28.60 and anchored the second-place 4x200-meter relay quartet that finished in 1:31.42. His 110-meter hurdles time at the state meet ranked No. 5 among Northwest prep competitors in 2012 at the time of his selection.
Academic excellence: Rohde has maintained a 3.42 GPA in the classroom and serves as president of his school’s Junior Achievement Program chapter.
Exemplary character: In addition to donating his time locally as a youth football and baseball instructor, he has volunteered on behalf of the Boys Scouts of America, Special Olympics and the Kids Don’t Float water safety initiative.
THE PRAISE
“Tyler Rohde is one of the most determined athletes I know,” said Chugiak head coach Jon Schroeder. “His dedication and focus, along with his work ethic, have propelled him to the top of the state in both hurdles events.”
THE FUTURE: Rohde will begin his senior year of high school this fall.
