Chase Wolfenbarger’s journey into the world of track and field began somewhat unexpectedly. Initially, track was just a way to stay in shape for her other sports: soccer and basketball. Despite the casual start, something clicked along the way.
“I didn’t think much would come from it, but then I fell in love with the coaches and being out on the track,” said Wolfenbarger. “Even jumping, which I wasn’t planning on doing my freshman year, became something I enjoyed.”
After this change in mindset, she began to take the sport more seriously. As a result of years of strenuous hard work and dedication, she will be joining the Tennessee Tech track team this fall.
Still, Wolfenbarger’s journey was filled with unexpected turns and surprises, especially with her middle school season being cut extremely short, causing her to lose interest in the sport altogether until she rejoined the team her freshman year.
“The biggest thing is that I never expected it, especially not when I was eight,” said Wolfenbarger. “I didn’t even keep up with track in middle school because of all the COVID stuff; it got cut short, and I didn’t go back to it in eighth grade.”
Despite a series of challenges and obstacles, Wolfenbarger has managed to persevere through them, coming out a stronger, more resilient athlete and person. From a casual start to a promising future in a D1 program, her love for track and field has grown into something truly remarkable.
“It was something that came out of left field, not just with the talent in jumping but also with my love for the sport,” said Wolfenbarger. “It was just surprising and shocking.”
