By John Goolsby, For the Tribune
IRONDALE – Shades Valley’s Reah Degraffenried signed a scholarship to run track at the University of North Texas Tuesday.
Degraffenried, the 6A State Champion and Alabama record holder in the 300-meter hurdles and indoor 60-meter indoor champion, is excited to sign with the Mean Green.
“The decision was not easy, but I am beyond excited to be furthering my academic and athletic career at the University of North Texas,” she said. “I can’t wait to see what new things I will accomplish as I begin this new chapter in my life.”
Degraffenried finished as State runner-up in the 100-meter hurdles, 100-meter dash, and 200-meter dash. She was also runner-up in the indoor 60-meter dash. Degraffenried ended her high school career by running personal best times in her last six State finals races.
“It seems these days it’s really hard to get the ones who have natural talent to work hard,” said Valley head coach Gary Ferguson. “She is a true example of what natural talent who works hard looks like, and her work ethic will take her really far.”