Jerry Draper, a senior at Fairfield High School, signed his letter of intent to run track and coach cross country at the University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, Ark., on Friday, Feb. 7.
“I am very excited to continue to compete in the sport I love,” Draper said.
When asked why he chose the University of the Ozarks, Draper said, “They demonstrate their faith through their actions. I am looking forward to joining the tight knit community they have.”
“We are so proud of Jerry for getting the opportunity to continue his cross country and track career in college,” Fairfield Coach Dani Scires said.
Draper plans to major in history and pursue a career in coaching.
Draper said he began running in the fifth grade with his grandfather.
When asked about his high school cross country and track career, Draper said, “It has had some highs and lows, but I would gladly do it again given the chance.”
Draper qualified for state his sophomore year in cross country and served as a four-year cross country captain as well.
At Fairfield High School, Draper is involved in band, cross country, track and golf.
“Jerry has meant a lot to the Fairfield cross country program, and has certainly left his mark. He is the definition of a leader and was always willing to do whatever was asked of him,” Scires said. “He will definitely be missed in the upcoming seasons, but we cannot wait to see what he does in the next four years.”
Draper is the son of Jim Draper and Amy & Keith Garrett. In his free time, he enjoys going to the gym and listening to music.
“It has been a collective effort from every single member of my family to get me to this point,” Draper said.
