Maddie Francis, Silverton track and field, Sr.
On the track: The highly decorated Francis is set to compete at the UIL Class 1A state track and field meet for an unprecedented fourth straight year. Francis accomplished that feat with a dominating performance during the Region I-1A meet last Friday and Saturday at South Plains College. Francis qualified for state in four events, bringing home two gold medals along with a pair of silver medals. The Silverton senior made it a clean sweep in the hurdle events. Francis won gold in the 100-meter hurdles clocking a 14.85, and then won the 300-meter hurdles with a 45.17. Francis earned silver in the long jump popping off a 17-6 3/4, and cleared 5-feet in the long jump for her second silver.
Francis has totaled four medals at the state meet that include three gold medals and one silver. The UIL Class 1A state meet is set for May 16 at Mike A Myers Stadium in Austin.
Coach April Howell: “Maddie is a very special person and an athlete. I’ve coached her since she was a freshman, and he is the type of person that does whatever it takes to put the extra work in to be successful. Even during basketball season, she’d want to get work in the weight room in to get stronger. She is a tremendous teammate and a leader that everyone can look up to. I love how she’s improved in the field events. She has always been a great hurdler, but she has come so far in the high jump and the long jump this season. It’s going to be so exciting to watch her compete at state one last time.”
Francis: “It means so much to make it back to state for a fourth straight year. I know that doesn’t happen for a lot of athletes. I think it shows the hard work that’s being put in and nothing means more to me than representing my school. I think regionals went really well. The hurdle races were great, but I’m so glad I made it in the long jump. That’s where I’ve really improved as well as the long jump. I’ve been more consistent in both of those events, and I can’t wait to get down to state one last time and see what I can do.”
About Francis
Favorite band or musician: Jimmy Buffett
Favorite social media platform: TikTok
Favorite athlete: Masai Russell
Bet you didn’t know: She loves to hang out with her sisters.
Parents: Jared and Thantell Francis.