Claire Wetick, a junior at St. Agnes Academy, has been named the 2026 Gatorade Tennessee Girls Track and Field Player of the Year due to her impressive achievements during the season. Wetick clinched the TSSAA Division II-A state championship in pole vault with a record clearance of 13 feet, 8 inches, and also excelled in hurdles, finishing second in the 100 hurdles and third in the 300 hurdles at the state meet. Her coach praised her exceptional work ethic and commitment, highlighting her supportive nature towards teammates. In addition to her athletic success, Wetick maintains a 4.82 GPA and is active in school leadership and community service. She also earned a commendable second place at the Nike Outdoor Nationals following her state achievements.

By the Numbers
  • Won the state pole vault championship with a clearance of 13 feet, 8 inches.
  • Achieved personal bests of 14.75 seconds in the 100 hurdles and 44.8 seconds in the 300 hurdles.
  • Maintained a 4.82 weighted GPA.
  • Placed second at the Nike Outdoor Nationals in pole vault.
  • Her pole vault clearance ranked seventh among high school athletes nationwide.
Yes, But

While Wetick's accolades are notable, the pressure of maintaining top performance while balancing academics and community involvement can be overwhelming. Some may argue the focus on sports excellence can overshadow personal well-being, prompting a discussion around the pressures faced by young athletes.

State of Play
  • Wetick's success has set a high standard for future athletes at St. Agnes Academy.
  • The Gatorade Player of the Year award continues to recognize exceptional student-athletes across the nation.
What's Next

Looking forward, Wetick is expected to continue her athletic career, aiming to further improve her personal records and compete at national events. She may also seek collegiate opportunities that can support her dual interests in athletics and academics.

Bottom Line

Claire Wetick's achievements as the Gatorade Tennessee Girls Track and Field Player of the Year highlight not just her athletic prowess, but also her commitment to academic and community excellence, setting a benchmark for future student-athletes.