DAYTON — Eaton seniors Carson Shepherd and Devon Rader completed their high school track and field careers at the OHSAA Division II state meet this past weekend at Welcome Stadium.
Shepherd placed eighth to reach the podium while Rader had the second-best throw of his career and finished 16th in the discus throw.
“What better way to end a high school track and field career than with a trip to compete at the OHSAA Track & Field Championships,” Eaton head coach Randy McKinney said. “Devon Rader and Carson Shepherd each achieved their goal of qualifying and competing with the top D-II athletes in the state in their respective events. I’m proud of the time, effort and commitment each made to follow the direction and guidance of Coach (Scott) Burnett and Coach (Brad) Kramer. What a great honor for all four of them and our Track & Field program at Eaton.”
Shepherd cleared 14 feet to earn his spot on the podium, just missing a new career best vault at 14-6.
For Rader, who only began throwing the discus last season as a junior, had a throw of 148-6.
“Devon and Carson are great examples of what can happen when an athlete chooses to be coachable with the right attitude, the willingness to follow a plan and the desire to achieve,” McKinney said. “These two seniors have represented themselves, their families, the Eaton Track & Field program, Eaton Community Schools and the greater Eaton Community very well. I’m proud to have had the opportunity to work with Devon and Carson during their high school Track & Field careers.”
Reach Eddie Mowen Jr. at 937-683-4061 and follow on X @emowenjr.
