ALTON - Alton recently honored Ja'Kori Steen, the seventh-grade state champion in the girls' 100-meter hurdles, by dedicating a street sign at the entrance of Alton Middle School in her name.
Get The Latest News!
Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.
Steen, now an eighth grader, won the seventh-grade 4A state finals with a time of 15.52 seconds, narrowly edging out Zoei Johnson of Manhattan, who finished second at 15.57 seconds.
Ja'Kori is also an Auto Butler Female Athlete of the Month.
Steen’s achievement has drawn praise from her coaches and community. Jaida Moore, her coach at Alton Middle School, has overseen her development, while Chelsea Anderson, the girls' track and field coach at Alton High School, expressed enthusiasm about Steen’s future in the sport.
“It is great to see Alton Middle School girls and boys performing well and developing an inspiring program,” Anderson said. “When Ja'Kori gets to high school track and field, her energy and determination will absolutely help her.”
Anderson also acknowledged that Steen’s recognition at such a young age is well-deserved.
“She deserves the Alton entrance sign dedication," the coach said. "She worked hard to get to this place and to capture a state championship. She trains hard and works hard,” Anderson said.
Coach Anderson further noted that other freshmen expected to join Alton High School in 2025 could also make a significant impact on the girls' track and field program.
Steen’s dedication and success reflect the growing strength of Alton’s girls' track program, which is building momentum with talented athletes advancing from middle school to high school competition.
