Franklin Central senior Jason Crist has made his college decision and will stay in state for the next four years. Crist chose Indiana University over offers from Butler, NC, State and Purdue. He says in the end it was a special feeling that separated the Hoosiers from the rest.
"The visit went extremely well. I got along very well with everyone on the team. I loved the campus and everything about it. I enjoyed a long talk with Coach Helmer and I had a lot of fun hanging out with the guys and watching their indoor dual meet with Purdue. I just had a certain feeling that I knew that this was where I wanted to be."
Over his career for the Flashes, Crist has shown he is one of the top distance runners in the state. The Franklin Central standout finished in the top 20 every cross country season including a runner-up finish to Futsum Zeinasellassie in 2010. He is also a top ten finisher at the state meet in both the 1600 and 3200.
Crist announced his decision via Facebook saying, "I live in Indiana, so it only makes sense that I become a Hoosier. IU bound."
Not only are the Hoosiers making an impact on Crist staying in state but other schools such as IUPUI, Purdue, and Butler are hauling in recruiting coups of their own. He believes that speaks volumes for the talent of the whole state as well as the programs.
"The schools in Indiana have put together some incredible recruiting classes, with some other guys who have still yet to make a decision. IU has been 7th at nationals the past two years, Coach Stewart at Purdue is turning that program around, Butler has a very young team with tons of potential, and IUPUI has a bright future as well. Not to mention that these schools are some of the top academic schools in the country. When other kids in the state have great options like these, there's almost no reason to go out of state. "
As for Crist he hopes to make a difference when he dawns the red and white. He says his plans are to work hard and contribute as soon as possible.
"After I do those things I want to be able to reach my potential as a runner, run on a great team, and get a great education at the same time. I believe very strongly in Coach Helmer and I think that he can definitely make those things happen."
Personal Bests
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1600 Meter Run4:11.65 -
3200 Meter Run8:59.85
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5000 Meter Run15:14.30
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