BRUNSWICK, Ga. — The reputation of athletics at Brunswick High School is prestigious, with recent accolades highlighting the success of its track and field program. Freshman Bulldog of Georgia, Riyon Rankin has emerged as a standout athlete, showcasing the commitment of the school's coaches to their student athletes.
Keisha Hamilton, an alumna of Brunswick Track & Field and sprints coach, spoke highly of the program's recent achievements. "Just this year alone, our 4x1 team has broken the school record twice," she said. "I was actually here back in 2016-17 when that record was set. And then to see our 4x4 team come back and break the record from 2016 and 17 is truly remarkable."
Rankin, now a high jumper at the University of Georgia, first gained recognition at Brunswick High School.
Brian Edwards, the head boys track and field coach, praised Rankin's accomplishments, stating, "He was a top freshman in the nation. Currently now, going into the SEC this week, he's #1 freshman in the nation and #4 in the country."
Edwards, who also serves as the linebackers coach for the football team, emphasized the collaborative effort among the coaching staff. "Our hurdles coach is also our DB coach," he explained. "I coach inside linebackers, I'm head coach. Our running backs coach is also our mid-distance coach. We all work together to share the load."
Hamilton emphasized the importance of family within the team, stating, "They call me mom, they call coach Edwards dad, sometimes uncle. I believe it's very important. Especially for some of our kids who don't have that piece in their household."
Overall, the success of the Brunswick High School track and field program reflects the collective dedication of both coaches and athletes. "They have that drive that they want to be better," Hamilton said. "They want to come out here and win. The investment on the athlete's part plays a very big role, just as well as the coaches' investment."
At the state meet, the boys track team achieved a milestone by placing 10th overall as a program, marking the highest placement in program history.