Eli Jones poses with award

Congratulations to Charles D. Owen High School (CDOHS) student Elijah Jones and the T.C. Roberson Track Team for their honors at the NC High School Athletic Association’s (NCHSAA) 2022-2023 award ceremony.

One of only 25 recipients in the state, Owen High’s Elijah Jones received the Heart of a Champion award, which the NCHSAA states is given to student athletes who exemplify outstanding citizenship and sportsmanship.

Elijah Jones is a star player of CDOHS’s track and field team. In the 2022 state Track and Field Championship he finished second in the 3,200-meter and was a key member of the 3,200-meter relay where Owen took third. In cross county he is a three-time conference champion and led the team to the 2022 2A State Championship. For indoor track, he recently finished second in the 1600-meter and thirrd in the 3,200. He holds school records in the 1,600 and the 3,200 categories. A dedicated and hard working student, Jones is known for his sportsmanship and friendliness to both his teammates and competitors. He will be going to UNC Charlotte next year to compete for their track and field and study Computer Engineering. 

“His work ethic and attitude are examples for the entire team, as he is respected by everyone,” said coach Bob Sadlemire. “I feel fortunate to have been his coach and look forward to observing his accomplishments in the coming years.”

The T.C. Roberson baseball players are the recipients of the Commissioner's Cup, representing the Western NC region. The Commissioner's Cup is awarded to exemplary athletic teams that engage in community service, and they are awarded a $1,000 stipend for their team. T.C. Roberson took the Cup on behalf of their work with the Progressive Education Program and their close connection and dedication to its students. 

Congratulations to these exceptional athletes!