As the seasons go by on the SPC scene, numerous athletes tend to have that one primary sport they compete in. Everyone has their niche.
But for Houston Christian’s Jordan Elie-Stuart, competing is a year-round gig.
Elie-Stuart begins the year suiting up for the gridiron, for which he has become a vital component on the Mustang defense, being a DB that aided in bringing the team to the furthest point in program history – the 2023 SPC-3A championship.
Shortly after, the Houston Christian senior already began training for the track & field season, which makes him one of the most versatile athletes to walk the halls.
“Competing in both football and track has benefitted each other in a lot of ways,” said Elie-Stuart. “For football, the physical strength that’s been developed in my legs and the rest of my body made me more prepared for the speed that’s required for track. That, in turn, translates onto the football field in the seasonal cycle.”
“I can’t thank each coaching staff enough for helping to develop my abilities. It’s been a blessing from the beginning.”
Advancing to the collegiate level for a sport is a rarity in itself. Yet, Elie-Stuart has transcended that mark by becoming a double-D1-commit for the Air Force Academy in both football and track.
While anyone would pounce at the opportunity to continue their athletic career in college, Elie-Stuart’s motivations came from a deeper place.
“I really liked the Air Force Academy and just the location itself,” he said. “When I took my official visit out there in Colorado Springs it was a beautiful area. It’s also nice to have the opportunity to play both sports, since they’re both a passion of mine.”
“But, My Dad is retired in the military from the Army, and my brother is already in the Air Force. I’ve been raised in that type of way with a strong family background. Having that military aspect along with competing athletically – I know it’s something that God has planned for me. I can’t do anything without Him and I’m ready for it.”
Before he graduates, however, this HCHS competitor still has one more season to leave with.
Houston Christian Track & Field placed third overall in the SPC state meet a year ago, with Elie-Start, in particular, winning the 400m dash, while also claiming silver and bronze in the 200m and 100m respectively, earning him an All-SPC nod.
After breaking three school records in 2023, the soon-to-be AF Falcon is more than ready to surpass that effort, as he looks to cap off his high school career in style.
“I’ve thought about it (graduating) multiple times,” he said. “But, I’m still just trying to remain focused on this final track season. I’m trying to break some more records, bring up my times, and hopefully improve my craft to help the team win a title.”
Given his preceding results, not to mention the tenacity he embodies, more record-breaking performances shouldn’t be a stretch for Elie-Stuart on the final SPC stage.