Cherry

Name: Ella Cherry

School: Bellwood-Antis

Age: 14

Grade: Freshman

Sport: Track and field

Athlete of the week achievement: Cherry won the 100-meter dash in 12.85 seconds and the long jump with a leap of 16 feet, 9 inches at the Bellwood-Antis Invitational, and then she won the triple jump with a personal-best of 36 feet, 10 inches at the Altoona Mountain Lion Classic and won the 200 dash, beating two opponents she finished behind in the event on Monday, in 26.92 seconds.

Season update: Cherry is among the top five in the Altoona Mirror honor roll in the 100, long jump and triple jump.

Coach Jen Soisson’s quote: “Ella participated in the first year of our junior high track program last year and we were glad she was excited to be in the high school program this year. She is a high-level gymnast, which has given her a significant advantage in her sprinting and jumping events. She is a hard worker, focused, and thrives under pressure.”

Favorite teacher: Mr. Mackereth

Favorite subject: English

Favorite movie: “10 Things I Hate About You”

Favorite food: Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Favorite song: “Godspeed” by Frank Ocean

Outside interests: Gymnastics

Favorite professional team: Pittsburgh Steelers

Favorite college team: Penn State women’s gymnastics

Pro athlete most admired: Simone Biles

Best athlete I ever competed against: Gabrielle Wayne

Most influential person on my athletic career: Cydnie Winger, LTD

Proudest athletic achievement: Level 9 Region 7 Floor Champion 2025

How I got my start in track and field: “I’ve always been interested in track and field since I was little.”

Future goal: “My future goal for track is to place in triple jump at the New Balance Nationals in Philadelphia June 19-22.”