Stevens plans to keep running at Northwood
Courtesy Photo Julian Stevens stands in his track uniform during a meet. On Wednesday, Stevens signed to continue his athletic and academic careers at Northwood University
News Photo by Owen Kinzey Julian Stevens, center, smiles on Wednesday as he signs to continue his athletic and academic careers at Northwood University where he plans to run track.
Courtesy Photo Julian Stevens stands in his track uniform during a meet. On Wednesday, Stevens signed to continue his athletic and academic careers at Northwood University
News Photo by Owen Kinzey Julian Stevens, center, smiles on Wednesday as he signs to continue his athletic and academic careers at Northwood University where he plans to run track.
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ALPENA - Every year, Feb. 7 marks the day when many continue their post-graduate journeys to become collegiate athletes.
Despite usually having several athletes signing, Alpena was held to just one individual in this year's cycle.
Julian Stevens was the lone signee who decided to commit to Northwood University to run track on Wednesday.
"Choosing Northwood was a pretty easy decision for me because of the nice community and how business-oriented it is," Stevens said. "The deciding factor for me was how amazing the coaching staff was and how they were able to make me feel at home."
When Stevens arrives at Northwood, he plans to focus on sprints, especially the 200-meter.
Posting a time of 22.29 as a personal record, Stevens' time ranks exceptionally high among sprinters.
While at university, Stevens also hopes to run the 100-meter and 400-meter.
His 100-meter time stands at 11.44, while the 400 sits at 52.19.
"At Northwood, I plan to run short sprints, including the 100, 200, and even up to the 400-meter. I'm definitely best at the 200-meter, so that is what I'm most looking to perform when going there," Stevens said.
Aside from the athletic portion of his decision, pursuing a degree in sports management has been a long-term goal for Stevens.
This type of education generally lasts four years, ultimately resulting in earning a Bachelor's Degree.
"Sports Management has become my dream because I wanted to stay involved with sports after I'm done playing. This is a way I can branch out to still be included in athletics even though I'm not actually participating in them," Stevens said.
While Stevens demonstrated improvement year after year as a high school sprinter, things began back in elementary school.
Starting in the third grade at Ella White Elementary, Stevens stood out.
Through his speed, form, and competitive spirit, Stevens was always destined to become the best he could be.
"It's crazy to think about now, but I've been running since elementary school, actually third grade. I've been running from third grade until now, but my favorite thing about it is the competition and drive to get better," Stevens said. "There's always something to improve on, and that's what I enjoy about it the most.
Over his high school career, Stevens has twice qualified for states, a minimal club amongst former Alpena athletes.
Before Stevens officially signed his letter of intent, Track Coach Trevor Roznowski commented on all of the achievements and effort Stevens has put into the Wildcats' program.
"He's an incredible leader and always sets an incredible example for the other team members. I think my favorite part about him is how methodical and focused he is when it comes to training and putting the time in," Roznowski said.