H.E. Corley Elementary School Student Shot Put Champion

For Immediate Release – August 19, 2016

H.E. Corley Elementary School Student Shot Put Champion

IRMO- With the Olympic Games coming to a close in Rio, one District Five student has her own aspirations of one day representing her country on the world’s biggest stage. H.E. Corley Elementary School third grade student Jaila Singletary was named the USA Track and Field South Carolina state champion and U.S. regional champion in shot put for the 7-8 year old division. Jaila is also the AAU state champion for her age.

“It was so fun to compete and win first place at these events,” Jaila said. “We practice really hard during the summer and it is nice to see it pay off.”

Singletary, who competes with The Storm Track Club in Columbia, originally joined the team as a runner. But, her coach Casper Powe recommended she give shot put a try. “When Coach Powe asked about Jaila testing her skills at shot put, I thought ‘no way!’ That thing is too heavy to throw,” Jaila’s mother Shawlene said. “But he really believed Jaila would excel, so we gave it a chance.”  Now, everyone is happy that Jaila decided to try the shot put. 

Jaila practices five days a week during the summer perfecting her craft, although she prefers competing over practicing as you might expect from an eight-year-old. “My arms get really tired at practice,” Jaila laughed. But her hard work has paid off in many ways. Not only has her preparation on the field made her a champion, but the discipline and focus has also helped her at school.

“I really believe her winning these events have boosted her confidence and self-esteem in the classroom,” Shawlene said. “Words can’t really explain what it has been like to see her accomplish her goals athletically. We also think that Jaila’s success in sports will also help her excel academically.”

When asked about her success, H.E. Corley Elementary School Principal Dr. Judy Franchini was all smiles saying, “We are so proud of Jaila. She is showing her leadership skills in unique and wonderful ways. To be state champion in shot put is such an exceptional accomplishment for a young student.”