Written By: Rylee Sturgis, Staff Writer
OWENS: Poly Senior Zach Owens plans for after high school.
Part of the 2023 graduating class, Zach Owens is one of many outstanding seniors here at Poly High School. Following the end of his high school career, Zach plans on attending RCC for his general education before getting a transfer to an HBCU (historically black college or university). RCC is a great college that provides an opportunity to save money and complete the credits required for general education courses before completing an individual’s major.
While at Poly, Zach has participated in football, basketball, and track, joining in his freshman year due to his passion for sports. Currently, Zach is finishing out his last high school track season and is on the way to competing in CIF once again this year. He has won first place in several track meets and invitations due to his capabilities in jumps. Zach does all three jumping events available at Poly, with the PRs (personal records) of 6 ‘4 in high jump, 20’9 in long jump, and 43’ in triple jump. Zach is the top jumper at Poly High School, and has had the opportunity to participate in the highly-selective Arcadia Invitational twice. The invite has incredibly high requirements, but despite this, Zach’s work has paid off on several occasions. Each requires different techniques and skills, making Zach a well-rounded track athlete as he also runs sprint events, particularly the 4×4 at the end of meets. As for running in college, Zach is not entirely decided; however, he speculates that he will continue track.
Looking back, Zach said that he would tell himself freshman year to “enjoy high school while it lasts because it goes by so fast and also choose your friends wisely.” He also wishes he would have taken part in more school events and dances junior year “to make more memories.” As with many other individuals finishing high school, Zach regrets not doing enough while he had the chance. Many seniors find that high school was something they did not appreciate at the moment; however, the moments that they did have were even more precious. Zach advises the next generation of students to enjoy it all before it’s too late and don’t take for granted what you had. Poly High will greatly miss Zach Owens as he leaves but we all wish him the best in his bright future!