Racing to Black Hills State

by Mike Armstrong Hanna, Elk Mountain, Medicine Bow (HEM) High School senior Taylar Scott signed on Thursday to attend Black Hills State University (BHSU). Taylar signed the papers in front of her parents, grandparents and coaches in the HEM school library to allow for social distancing. Jackie Jones, HEM track head coach was happy for her athlete/student. "Taylar was actually the first one recruited by Black Hills and she is officially the first one to sign for their track and field program for next year's campaign," J. Jones said. "They are interested in her being a sprinter and jumper." Jones said Taylar had another offer from a college, but they could not guarantee she would be able to triple jump. "Triple jump is one of her passions, so with Black Hills wanting her to do that, she went to them," J. Jones explained. "With her having a 4.0 and being the valedictorian this year, in addition to the sports scholarship, she is probably looking at some academic stuff too. She is a very accomplished young lady." J. Jones has known Taylar from when the student started in 6th grade. "Taylar has always been one to set goals and she is driven," J. Jones said. "She is a dedicated out-of-season athlete and it just goes to show, when you put in the hard work, good things are going to come. She also knew being a multi-sport athlete was going to lead her participating in sports at a collegiate level. She makes me proud for all that she has accomplished." Russ Wiggam, HEM athletic director, has also known Taylar since she was in 6th grade. "Again, the words dedicated, driven and goal oriented, describe this young lady," Wiggam said. "You give her a challenge and she steps right up to take it on. That is her personality. She is quiet, but remarkably competitive." Cliff Jones, assistant track coach, is also proud of his student athlete.  "I am super proud of what she has done over the years to get to this point," C. Jones said. "I am sorry she didn't get to compete last year, because her sophomore year she was one inch from being state champion in her final jump. This year, I hope we get to compete because I am sure Taylar feels she has some unfinished business. I think she is going to do great in South Dakota." BHSU, is a public four year university in Spearfish, South Dakota. Close to 4,500 students attend classes at its 123 acre campus. The university is organized into three colleges: the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Business and Natural Sciences, and the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences The athletic teams of BHSU are known as the Yellow Jackets. The university is a member of the NCAA and participates in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC).  Grandparents Vernon and Vicki Scott were at the signing to support their granddaughter. "I am happy for Taylar to be whatever she wants to be," Vernon said. "This is a good first step." "Taylar has always had a strong constitution and has been driven and knows what she wants," Vicki said. "I completely believe she will be everything that she ever dreamed of." Her father, Josh Scott, was beaming as Taylar signed the papers. "I am extremely proud of her for reaching one of her goals that she has had for the last three years," Josh said. "I know she will reach many more." Taylar acknowledged it was a big day in her very quiet manner. "I feel very fortunate to be able to have this come true," Taylar said. "Track is definitely my favorite sport and triple jump is my absolute favorite event. I am so grateful to many because I wouldn't be anywhere without my family, coaches and friends." Taylar's plans are to study to become a nurse and specialize in neonatal care. "I want to help children," Taylar said. "It is another goal I have." No person who is close to Taylar doubts she will accomplish what she has made up her mind to do. "As her parents, we are really proud of her, because she has worked hard for this," Teira Scott, her mother, said. "She has set goals for herself and she is checking them off. We just try to support her and do everything we can, but she is one hard working kid and when she sets her mind to something she is going to go out and get it."