GALLIPOLIS, Ohio - University of Rio Grande head track & field coach Bob Willey has announced the signing of Gallia Academy High School's Tim Warner for the 2012-2013 academic year.
Warner, who also ran cross country for the Blue Devils, earned six varsity letters during his prep career and is the GAHS distance medley record holder. He was named the MVP of the Gallia Academy cross country team.
Warner was also named to the All-Southeastern Ohio Athletic League (SEOAL) cross country team and was an academic All-SEOAL selection.
"I'm extremely excited to run for Rio. I'm going to give it everything I've got while I'm there," Warner said. "Being a collegiate-level runner has been a goal of mine ever since I became serious about running."
Willey is equally excited to add Warner to his program.
"Tim's been at our running camp in the past and he's a good distance runner," Willey said. "This year, he had some lower leg problems and, since he didn't have the conditioning, (Gallia Academy) coach (Todd) May moved him down in the 400 and in the hurdles and it proved to be a great fit for him. He ran on their 4x400, the open 400 and some hurdles. We found a side of Tim that we didn't know was there."
Warner, who plans to study physical education, health & sports exercise, chose Rio Grande over a handful of other schools including Shawnee State, Muskingum, Cincinnati Christian and Defiance.
"It was really a tough decision for me," he said. "I've always felt comfortable at Rio and we've always gone out there for long runs. I really enjoy the atmosphere there."
Willey said he thinks Warner can be an asset to both the indoor/outdoor trak & field teams, as well as the cross country squad at Rio.
"Tim has shown some really good leg speed and I think he can be versatile for us," said Willey. "With the hurdle form that he has, perhaps he can be a steeplechaser. With his endurance, I could see him being an outstanding 400 hurdler for us. We'll probably make him a member of our 4x400 team. We're looking for a lot out of him."
And Warner appears ready to give a lot to the RedStorm in return.
"I'm a strong and dedicated student and athlete. I'm giving my heart to Rio and I'll do my best for them," he said. "My ultimate goal is to be an All-American in both cross country and track. I believe that, if I work as hard as I can, I can reach that goal."
Warner is the son of Scott Warner and Leslee Freeman of Pomeroy.
