Senior Vahin Middough is well into his journey of success in high jump. Although he started during his junior year, he’s excelling in his second season.

Coach Teresa Henderson suggested Middough try the sport, and Middough has become one of Alexandria City High School’s top high jumpers.  He’s currently ranked number six in Virginia. Henderson continues to support him in the space of a mentor instructor, which keeps him motivated. Middough is looking to compete at the college level and has already visited colleges and networked with coaches.  

“Before a big competition, mentally, I try to remember the things I’ve been working on so I don’t have to think about it as much when I need to compete. I try to get more sleep and make sure I’m practicing at a high level so that I’m physically at my best on meet days,” said Middough. 

As a student athlete, it is very challenging to balance your training with other responsibilities. In Middough’s case, he produces songs. He admits: “It’s a lot sometimes, but I usually practice [track] around the same time everyday, which makes it easier to know when I need to do school work, or am able to make songs.”

The most valuable lesson Middough has learned from high jump is “hard work pays off, and how crucial it is to remain consistent at all times.”

“I felt like I had higher expectations even though I was a beginner,“ he said. “I had to work harder and do research more on the event so I could be stronger and learn more about it. Some goals I have for high jump are to continue to win meets, and set new personal bests.” 

Middough is also a rapper. In 2024, he had over one million plays on Spotify. He wants to keep capitalizing on the momentum he’s had thus far, though remains humble.

“In music, I have producers and engineers who are a huge help with my song making process,” he said.

His latest single “Schedule” has over one million plays, and he has also attained 31,400 listeners every month. 

Vahin has a personal record in high jump of 6 feet, 4 inches, and has opened up his season by jumping 6 feet, 2 inches. Among all of his accomplishments, he didn’t make it this far by himself; teamwork played a big role in his achievements. 

Track and Field’s senior night will be held this Saturday at 10 a.m. at Episcopal High school where you can watch Middough compete.