By Matt Browning
Senior standout Malachi Hopkins is approaching his final season at Southeast of Saline with a clear mindset: push beyond limits and chase a state title.
“My primary focus this year was to give it all I got and even when that’s all I got give more,” Hopkins said. “If I keep working hard and push past the mind then it’s a winning game from there.”
That mentality comes after a strong junior campaign in which Hopkins placed sixth at the state meet in the long jump with a leap of 21 feet, 8 inches. He also qualified in multiple events, finishing ninth in the 110-meter hurdles in 15.03 seconds, while posting marks of 5-10 in the high jump and 43.09 seconds in the 300 hurdles.
Now, Hopkins has his sights set higher.
“I hope to get a state title in long jump, coming close last year along with breaking my school record,” he said. “Showing the younger athletes all it takes is hard work and dedication.”
Beyond his individual goals, Hopkins has embraced a leadership role within the program. He said younger athletes often look to him for guidance, something he takes seriously as he helps shape the team’s culture.
“One of my strengths is leadership,” Hopkins said. “Many of the younger athletes come to me asking me to help them understand this technique we are working on or how they can improve their time and distance.”
He makes a point to be available, whether it’s offering technical advice or encouragement before competition.
“I utilize this by helping those when I see it or when I’m asked, making sure everyone is ready to compete,” he said.
Technically, Hopkins has focused on refining key aspects of his events, particularly in the long jump. He emphasized improving his glide phase and explosiveness off the takeoff, areas he attacked during the offseason.
“This season I really wanted to work on my glide phase in long jump, getting up but also carrying it,” Hopkins said. “I also wanted to work on my explosiveness in the get off.”
