Home / Sports / Willard High Makes History in Long Jump State Finals
Willard High Makes History in Long Jump State Finals
5 Jun
Summary
- La Mya Hicks became Willard High's first female state champion.
- Hicks secured the Division IV long jump title with her first jump.
- Cora Clark earned third place, also achieving All-Ohio honors.
Senior La Mya Hicks etched her name in Willard High School history on June 4, 2026, by winning the Division IV girls long jump state championship at the OHSAA Jesse Owens State Track and Field Championships. This momentous victory marks the first individual state championship ever secured by a female athlete from Willard High School across any sport.
Hicks achieved this historic feat with an impressive initial jump of 18-02.25, a distance that proved unbeatable. She reflected on her win, stating it was "crazy to be the first girl in my school to win this" and that last year's near miss fueled her determination. Hicks had previously finished 11th at state as a junior.
Adding to Willard's success, senior Cora Clark delivered a surprise performance, earning third place and All-Ohio honors with a jump of 17-07.50. Clark, who also made long jump her first year attempting it, secured an at-large bid to the finals. Hicks credited Clark's presence for easing her own pressure, highlighting their supportive teammate dynamic.
