Sydney McLaughlin signed her national letter of intent to compete at the University of Kentucky this morning at Union Catholic High School in New Jersey. She announced her decision on Monday night.
The national high school record holder for 400m hurdles (54.15) and the indoor flat 400m (51.84) chose the Wildcats over the University of Southern California. When asked what stood out about Kentucky, she pointed to the coaching staff.
"Edrick Floréal," she said. "He has Keni and Jasmine and he has Kori Carter... and I think for me and the goals I want to pursue in 2020 and beyond, I think he's the right guy for that."
McLaughlin became the youngest track and field Olympian since 1972 when she took third in the 400m hurdles at the U.S. Olympic Trials this summer. She advanced to the semi-final round in Rio.
Here's some photos of today's signing day event, courtesy of Robert Kellert for MileSplit NJ:
R-L: Union Catholic Principal Percylee Hart, Sydney McLaughlin, brother Ryan, head track coach Mike McCabe.
Sydney's brother, Ryan; Sydney McLaughlin; Union Catholic Principal Percylee Hart.
Sydney McLaughlin; head track coach Mike McCabe; teammate Tressa Novak, who signed with Assumption College.
