Thomas Johnson Talks About the State Championships and his Spring Season
White Plains Junior Thomas Johnson put the final touches this past weekend on an outstanding athletic year with his second-place finish in the triple jump at the New York State Championship in Syracuse. His triple jump of 47 feet and 5.25 inches was his best jump of the spring season. Johnsons also placed eighth in the long jump, which is also no small feat.
Below is an e-mail interview conducted with Johnson this past weekend.
1. How was your injury feeling this weekend?
I felt a bit nervous about my injury going into states because it turned out I had tendinitis in my heels. However my trainer, Mike Mirabelli, and administrator Mr. [Chip] Salvestrini were able to provide me with a sleeve that helped to reduce the pain during my phases.
2. How hard were you able to practice this week?
I could not practice my jumping before states so coach [Lamont] McCormick gave me some leg strengthening drills and well as flexibility workouts. The week prior to states I was unable to undergo any hard training because of the injuries I had picked up this season.
3. Was the weather a problem for the triple jump on Saturday?
The weather played a great role in the outcome of Saturday. I think it was a bit of a problem because it was a downpour the entire day. Friday it was warm. As a result of this jumpers were able to perform at their highest levels. Saturday the rain made it hard to get a good warm up in. However that is never an excuse because the weather isn’t always going to be sunny and warm. Looking into the future I will just have to practice in all types of weather to better prepare myself.
4. How would you rate your performance in this spring season?
I would rate my performance this [season] as a B because I felt I could’ve done much better. Coming out of a great indoor season. I expected to achieve some new personal records which were doable. I was unable to do so and I could not replicate a 47-foot jump during the season until the state meet. Consistency is something I’m going to have to pick up.
This season has been very emotional. I wanted to dedicate a win in the name of my athletic director Chip Salvestrini but was unable to do so. He was a great director in the three years that I knew him. If I had my way Chip would always be my first nomination to direct all White Plains sports. I would like to thank my trainer Mike [Mirabelli] for putting up with my injuries, my coaches, my friends and my family for being my moral support and always believing in me. While this season is over, I will be preparing myself to defend my indoor title next year as well as jumping a 50-plus foot jump in the triple. Maybe then I will accomplish the goal of dedicating a win a Mr. Salvestrini.
5. What competitions will you do this summer?
As of now my summer competitions are questionable because my body is telling me to rest. I am going to be resting for a lot of the summer. I plan on running AAU track with some of my teammates to stay in shape for fall soccer and winter track. Also I will be training with my cousin to better my running form as well as my times.
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