Ranked fifth in the state for long jump and sixth for triple jump, senior Track and Field Athlete Zane Hummel has been known for his incredible jumping skills in past seasons. But, especially after the success of this indoor season all eyes will be on Zane in the outdoor season.

Finishing out last outdoor season placing second in long jump at the State Championship meet, Zane has returned with a new fire. Already this indoor season, he has broken Bellefonte High’s Track and Field Triple Jump record, with a jump of 45 feet 2 inches. This achievement is especially important because Zane hasn’t broken his triple jump personal record since sophomore year. He has also made major progress in his long jump with a new personal record of 22 feet 11.75 inches.

“I worked hard in the off-season and even with a personal trainer, so I knew I could accomplish what I am currently accomplishing,” Zane said.

Zane started track and field in 7th grade after he decided to quit lacrosse. Since then he has not only become a strong jumper, but also a 200 meter dash and 4×400 relay runner.

“I’ve known Zane since he was in the Junior High Track and Field program. I saw from very early on that he had a lot of talent,” science teacher and jump coach Mr. Freidhoff said. 

The two work very closely as Zane spends the majority of practice working towards his jumps. 

“He gets just as pumped about my jumps as I do… I couldn’t have asked for a better coach,” Zane when recounting Coach Friedoffs dedication said. 

As Zane is at a high level of jumping Coach Friedoff’s training consists of open conversation about how he can get better.

“It takes a keen eye to notice where he can improve,” Coach Freidhoff said.

While Coach Freidoff is an amazing supporter, Zane has found that in any period of doubt, his Mom is his number one. Mrs. Hummel tries to learn all the jumping techniques so that she can be of as much help as possible.”

“[She is] always telling me how proud of me she is,” Zane said.

Entering the outdoor season, Zane doesn’t plan on slowing his hard work. He wants to qualify for the State Championship again, and “succeed” when he gets there. Coach Freidhoff hopes to help him place in triple jump along with long jump this year. He recalls the last State Championship being slightly chaotic due to the officials realizing they measured Zanes jump wrong, after Coach Freidhoff had already left the meet, he had to run back to the stadium to help Zane finish out in finals where he eventually placed second.

Most importantly, with this being Zane’s senior year he just wants to “have fun all season,” as it is his last with Bellefonte Track and Field. 

Wishing Zane Hummel the best of luck this indoor and outdoor track season!