Jeb Jones had a great senior cross country season. Now he's ready for the next level.
The Science Hill senior ranked sixth in the state last season. His personal best came in his 18th place finish at Great American when he ran 15:26. At the state championship, Jones placed fifth with a 15:48 on the challenging Steeplechase course.
Jones was the individual champion at the Big 11 Conference Meet and the Region 1 championship.
Next fall Jones will become a Samford Bulldog.
When he looked for the college that was the best fit for him, Jones' goal was to find the school that would help him become more well-rounded. He told us that his education played a major role in his decision.
"The deciding factor for me was how much I liked the actual school," Jones said. "The academics and the campus were both things that I was really drawn too. I felt the smaller size (thus more individualized education) was preferable as a student."
Jones is seeking a degree in biochemistry and a minor in business. He mentioned that his ultimate goal is to become a dentist.
Jones felt like Samford had the resources of a larger institution. He was impressed by the amount of services the athletic program could offer him.
"Despite being a smaller school I felt they had my every need," he said.
Samford's coaching staff impressed Jones as well. The training philosophy, personality and resources of the program fit what he was looking for.
"I really enjoyed the coaches," he said. "Not only were they very polite they didn't seem partial to any athlete on the visit. As far as training goes I think I'll be well taken care of."
Jones feels comfortable off the track and out of the classroom as well at Samford. He felt like the team fit his style.
"I really liked how dedicated the distance team is. As far as I could tell the athletes made nutrition and sleep a very big priority."
This spring, Jones will be looking for more success in his final semester as a high school athlete. He's got big goals for his final act at Science Hill.
"On the track this season I want to get under 4:10 in the mile/1600 and 1:54 low in the 800m. I'm also gunning for a state championship."
Jones chose Samford over Wake Forest, Tennessee, ETSU and Vanderbilt among others.
