Wellston High School Hurdler Signs with Rio Grande
Wellston High School’s Ariel Patrick is joined by administrators and coaches as she signs to continue her track & field career at the University of Rio Grande. Pictured are, from left to right, (seated) Rio Grande director of track & field/cross country Steve Gruenberg, Ariel Patrick, Rio Grande assistant coach Nick Wilson; (standing) Wellston High assistant principal Mike Lackey, Wellston High track & field head coach Brian Mantell, Wellston High principal Megan Sowers, Wellston High athletic director Jeff Hendershott.
WELLSTON, Ohio – University of Rio Grande track & field head coach Bob Willey has announced the signing of Wellston High School’s Ariel Patrick for the 2015 season.
Patrick, a 5-foot-2 hurdler, has captured the highest sprint point award for head coach Brian Mantell’s Golden Rockets.
“I am very excited to sign with Rio,” said Patrick. “I’m also very happy to be able to continue running track at the collegiate level. I has been a goal for me since I started running track.”
Rio Grande’s Director of Track & Field/Cross Country, Steve Gruenberg, shared Patrick’s excitement.
“We are very pleased to have Ariel as a part of the team next year,” Gruenberg said. “I believe that when she gets here and has the chance to practice everyday with a great group of hurdlers, she will develop into a good hurdler for us. I also believe that she will bring a positive attitude into every practice and make those around her better.”
Patrick, who plans to major in nursing upon her enrollment, said that her desire to continue to run led her to signing with Rio Grande.
“The feeling of wanting to continue pursuing my track career is something that helped me reach this decision,” Patrick said. I feel like I can bring some fun to an already fun team. I want to make it as far as I can in any competition I enter.”
Patrick is the daughter of April Martin and Rusty Patrick of Wellston.
