Hoos Life: Jordan Scott at NCAA Championships with Season Canceled
The 2019 NCAA indoor triple jump champion, Jordan Scott (Portmore, Jamaica) and four of his teammates were set to compete at the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships (March 13-14) when the NCAA announced the cancelation of all winter and spring championships on Thursday (March 12.). The UVA senior held the top jump in the NCAA heading into the competition with an ACC and UVA record jump of 17.02m (55’10.25″). Scott won the 2020 ACC indoor triple jump title and was named ACC Field Performer of the Meet. He was also named the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches’ Association (USTFCCCA) Southeast Region Indoor Field Athlete of the Year.
Q: What was it like to be in Albuquerque, New Mexico, preparing for the start of the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships and to hear that the NCAA had canceled winter and spring championships?
Scott: I was lost for words. Prior to the cancelation of the championship, it was a situation where only ACC and Big Ten schools were pulled, and I just didn’t understand why. I would have understood more if we weren’t there interacting with everybody for a whole 24 hours already but after a while, I accepted it. Everything happens for a reason and I think they (the NCAA) made the choice with our best interest at heart.
Q: What did the coaching staff say to you and your teammates after the announcement was made?
Scott: I don’t remember specifically but I think they were a bit taken aback as well. They themselves had made a great deal of sacrifices to ensure we got there and were ready to compete but it’s such a tricky situation. There aren’t ever really the right words for situations like that.
Q: What has this experience been like for you?
Scott: It’s been different. It’s obviously like nothing I’ve ever experienced and it puts me in a spot to quickly figure out my next move and what I want to do.
Q: How has this impacted your training as you are preparing for larger international competitions and the Olympics?
Scott: It has. Meets are necessary to get ready and being that we have no meets at all this spring, we’re kind of in a spot where we don’t really know what to do. We didn’t plan for this and, as a result, have to adjust and try and tailor my training for the end of June/early July for the possible Olympic games.
Q: What is your new training routine like at this time? Walk us through a normal day.
Scott: Back to the basics. We have a ridiculous amount of time so we’re going back to the fitness level work and working our way back up at the moment.
Q: How do you feel about what you were able to accomplish this season?
Scott: I’m happy and grateful but definitely not satisfied. I felt like I had so much more to give and it’s unfortunate that it was cut short but for all I did accomplish, I am definitely grateful.
Q: How do you stay motivated to train on your own?
Scott: It’s tricky, especially when there’s uncertainty around the hosting of the Games but it’s been a dream of mine since I was child so just knowing that I might have that opportunity is enough to keep me going honestly.
Q: What are your current plans at the moment? Have you returned to Jamaica?
Scott: My current plans can’t really be disclosed because they aren’t finalized yet. We are just waiting to hear more about this extra year of eligibility (from the NCAA) and from there I’ll make a move in deciding what I want to do. But I believe I have unfinished business and if I get the chance to return, I’ll definitely be here.
Q: How has this impacted your hometown of Portmore and your family?
Scott: To be honest, I don’t think it has really affected us that much. My hometown is pretty small with little to no traffic really coming in or out on a daily basis, but I’m pretty sure we have no current cases and I’d be surprised if that changes. My family is all safe as well and that’s all that matters to me.
Q: Do you have a message you would like to share with UVA fans during this time?
Scott: I think this is a weird period in time for us both, fans and athletes. It’s hard to have something you love so much taken away from you but unfortunately there’s nothing we can do about it at this time. With time, when this is all in the past, we will return stronger and better ready to compete for titles and represent our school to the best of our ability. The endless support you guys offer is ridiculous and may seem like nothing, but it goes a long way for myself and my fellow student-athletes here at UVA. Thank you.
Q: Do you have any advice for other athletes that are attempting to train on their own?
Scott: Find your “why.” Knowing the reason you want to do something or you are doing something is important and goes a long way in self-motivation. Once you know your “why” it’ll seem like it’s nothing to get up and do what needs to be done. It’s also a good idea to surround yourself with friends and family who want to see you succeed.
EDITOR’S NOTE: During this time of non-competition, UVA athletics will be posting frequently on VirginiaSports.com to keep you up to date with the happenings, experiences and thoughts of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and alumni. We encourage Wahoo fans to share these links on your social media accounts for others to enjoy. We also suggest you follow the University’s website – news.virginia.edu – for more stories and information. #GoHoos