GRADE 8 learner, Jessica Meier, is Waterfall College’s SPAR Star of the Month.
She excelled in her chosen sport of athletics and recently ran the most laps during the school’s annual Walkathon, held on the 40-acre campus.
Jessica’s story is inspiring, and she tells it with clear passion which constantly drives her to achieve her personal best.
“In primary school there was a girl who was always better than me so I asked my mom if I could go for training. After that, I beat her once and then I became determined. The following year I won all of my races, except high jump.”
In Grade 7, Jessica was awarded the senior Victrix Ludorum at the Deutsche Schule Durban Athletics Meeting, as she received her Sub Youth Provincial Colours.
At the Walkathon, Jessica completed an outstanding 13 laps of approximately 1km around the school campus in two hours, securing her position as the first girl home. Once again showing her competitive streak, she said, “I was determined to beat the girl who came first in 2017!”
In March this year, Jessica received a bronze medal for shot put in the U15 KZN School Championships at Kings Park and competed against girls a year older than her.
She has also achieved in academics and was first in the grade for term 1 of Grade 8.
“I like most subjects, but I am best in maths. I don’t know why!” she said cheerfully.
Last year, Jessica passed her Level 4 music examinations for the Oboe. She is also interested in art, photography and the outdoors.
Jessica’s mom, Brenda, said, “We are proud of how Jessica balances her love of athletics, academics and music and has achieved well in all of these areas. She is a fun loving and caring girl.”
Her coach, Lux Gordhan, said, “Jessica has great potential to improve as she grows with the shot put event. She started as a 7m thrower with me in August last year. Her dedication to her training ensured that she was able to throw more than 10 metres by October.”
When asked about her future plans, Jessica said, “I would like to do a heptathlon because I enjoy all the different athletics events. I am also aiming for first in the grade this year in academics.”
Melinda Wilson, the mathematics teacher at Waterfall College, described Jessica as a competent, determined and engaging learner.
The school’s principal, Jeanette van der Merwe, said, “Well done to Jessica for all she has achieved in such a short space of time at Waterfall College. We look forward to supporting her as she continues to take the initiative in pursuing her goals in academics, sport and culture.”
Do you want to receive alerts regarding this and other Highway community news via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname (ONLY) to 060 532 5409.
You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have signed up for our news alerts you need to save the Highway Mail WhatsApp number as a contact to your phone, otherwise you will not receive our alerts
