Former B-U track star Sterlin Thropp adjusting to life at WVWC

After capping a dominant high school track career, Sterlin stayed local, signing to continue his track career with the WVWC.

Sterlin competes in the same events he made name for himself in high school, the 200 meter and 400 meter dashes, as well as the 4x100 and 4x400 meter relay teams, only now donning a Bobcat jersey.

Much like anyone experiencing change, Sterlin found the transition from the high school to the collegiate level difficult at first but has since settled in nicely at his new home with the Bobcats’ track program.

“The transition from high school to college was difficult at first. It’s likes starting from scratch. You walk in a room with a bunch of new faces who I call family now. The competition level is way higher than high school also, so you must prepare yourself for it,” Sterlin said.

Sterlin pointed to the amount preparation and work put into a college practice as major differences he had to get used to.

“On the collegiate level, the practices become more intense and the weight room becomes a priority. I adjusted to it fast and learned that to be able to compete at this level, you must outwork everyone,” Sterlin said.

Through his first year as a Bobcat, Sterlin has fallen in love with WVWC track.

“I love the program and the coaches. The coaches make it a very family-like environment. They push me every day to be the best athlete that I can possibly be, whether it’s in the weight room, track or even as an individual. They put all their time into the Wesleyan track program and put us athletes in the best position we can be, and I’d like to thank my coaches Kelsey Chambers, Joshua Petro and Garret Lynch for that,” Sterlin said.

He still fondly reminisces on his days with the Buccaneers and thanks his teammates and coaches for pushing him to be his best.

“The one thing I miss about B-U track is of course my old teammates, Patty, Roy and Roberta. They are over half the reason I’m in the position I am today and helping me become a collegiate athlete. They all showed me so many things and gave me memories I’ll never forget. Whether it was breaking records, running in tough conditions or bringing a state chip back to Buckhannon, we created one of the best track teams to ever come through Buckhannon-Upshur High School’s program. We all had a bond like no other, and they are truly family to me. I love them all and thank them for putting their trust in me and helping me perform at the best of my abilities,” Sterlin said.

Sterlin looks to make a major impact on the Bobcat track program, setting lofty goals for himself.

“I’d like to be a part of improving our track program, make it an even more competitive atmosphere, break records and become a conference champion. I still have the same mindset as I’ve always had, and that is to be the best. Starting from scratch as a freshman, I have to make a name for myself at a higher level. I’m motivated to be the best in the conference at my events, and that will be accomplished through hard work,” Sterlin said.

“I’d like to thank the Wesleyan program and current teammates for welcoming me. I can’t wait to see where this new journey takes me. I’ve already created relationships that will last a lifetime. I’d also like to thank my family, whether it’s driving four hours to watch me compete or pushing me to be the best version I can be, they always have my back,” Sterlin said.