Robert Jeffrey

Sun Sports Contributor

Cameron Turner Photo

NORWICH – Speed, strength, precision, and poise all present the skills needed to land the perfect jump.

On a picture perfect Sunday, with sweat glistening and mental fatigue setting in, an exhausted Caroline Stewart prepares for her next leap, aimlessly trying to perfect her craft. Just one more jump to complete her Sunday workout as coach Scottie Decker looks on.

The Norwich High School junior, bent on making the New York State Meet for a third time, determined to end the one year state meet drought that plagued her following an injury prone sophomore campaign. Cha’ Ching says Decker as Caroline ends the workout on a high note, and as the two walk off into what should be seen as nothing short as the ending of a Hollywood movie, they both know there is still some unfinished business.

As for Stewart and her Sunday practice sessions? They’ve certainly paid off.

“I had my mind set on going to states this year from the first day, so actually going back to states is a great accomplishment for me because that was my biggest goal for the season,” said Stewart. “I'm grateful to be going back and competing.”

With Stewart’s State Championship debut coming as an eighth grader, following that with another appearance as a freshman, the bar she holds her performances to are understandably very high.

“It feels great to be back (at States), like I said that was my goal and it feels good to know all your hard work has paid off,” said an excited Stewart.

The jubilation associated with making the state meet for a first time is exciting, but for a third time in four years; there is a very good reason for celebration, especially according to NHS jumps coach, Scottie Decker.

“Caroline is a stand out. Her smile is infectious and her laughter is healing. While she does not draw attention to herself, she is the star,” said Decker. “She can handle states. It is not a new experience for her. She needs to go to states, do what she does best, jump and enjoy the experience.”

But don’t let that smile and laughter fool you, when it’s time for her turn to hit the pits, Caroline is all business.