Mmekom Inyang has had an impressive junior year. Defensive Player of the Year in basketball for 7A Richmond Hill High School. Broke numerous school records in track. And now she can add an All-American to that lengthy list of accomplishments. 

“It’s almost surreal,” Inyang said. “I have faced so much adversity this season with underperforming and nagging injuries so I am overjoyed that I was finally able to perform in a big meet like this.

“Also, being able to PR in 4 out of my 7 events is just incredible. It shows that my training from my coaches has been working even this far into the season.”

While Inyang was pleased with the way she performed and her outcome, merely making it to the Junior Olympics was a special feat. 

“Being able to qualify for the Junior Olympics was truly a dream come true,” Inyang said.  My grandfather has been telling me since I was young “you will make it to the Olympics” and his words became my reality. 

“I am just beyond blessed to have been able to compete on such a high level, and even earn a medal in my events.”

Although Inyang placed third overall and earned All-American status, she knows that the job isn’t finished for what she wants to accomplish. 

“I know I have quite a few things I still have to work on still but I am very very happy that I was finally able to measure up to my competition,” Inyang said. “I would like to get better and more consistent with high Jump and Long jump but I know I Definitely need to work on my 800m. 

“That event is the most painful and the event I dread and struggle with the most! My goal is to run under 2:35 before I graduate. I am certain that my coaches will get me to that level next season.”

While it is Inyang competing in the events, she does feel as though that there are many contributing individuals and factors to her success. 

“I definitely would not have been prepared or able to perform at the level which I did without the help from all my coaches,” Inyng said. Coach Taylor, Coach Belinda, Coach Marco, Coach Tim, Coach Grady, Coach Jamaine, and Coach Dietrich  all played a huge role in my success.

“My family has been my biggest support system. When I didn’t think I could do it, they believed in me. My parents, grandparents, siblings, and extended family have stuck by me throughout this entire season.

“Most importantly, God. He gave me strength when I didn’t have anything left in me. He calmed my heart before all my races and whenever I started to feel anxious. I am positive that I would not have made it this far without him.”

Through it all, Inyang is already looking toward her future in the sport, and has some goals she wants to accomplish before she graduates. 

“My goal for next season is to stay healthy, get stronger in my events,” Inyang said. “I also want to reach 5000 points, and potentially win the entire meet next time.”