Blochlinger’s success extends far beyond his effort at state

Collin Blochlinger was in an all too familiar place after his time at the high jump pit at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium in Columbus.Last year Blochlinger qualified for state and came to rest in ninth place in the Division III boys high jump. For those unfamiliar with ninth place and its meaning, it is the most heartbreaking spot of all, one notch away from an invitation to All-Ohio country.This year, with one year of experience under his belt, the Hiland senior was seeking redemption.This time around, he successfully soared over 6-feet, 4-inches — two inches higher than he cleared last year, and a jump that would have earned him fifth place last time around.This time it was good enough for ninth. Again.“It’s disappointing, but I jumped well,” said Blochlinger of his effort, which equaled his own school record. “I had been struggling with my jumps coming into the meet, so I really can’t complain about the 6-04. It is just the ninth place finish that hurts, especially a second time around.”Blochlinger’s heartache wouldn’t stop there. Having also qualified in the long jump, Blochlinger had a second chance, but he had a rough day on the runway, and did not qualify for the finals.“It hurts,” said Blochlinger. “You come down here and you want to do well, but it wasn’t meant to be. I didn’t do so well in both events today. But I’ll live. I was fortunate enough to get down here two times, and that is something I can be proud of.”It has been Blochlinger and fellow senior, Brennan Coil, who have stepped into what was a once floundering Hiland track program and helped bring it to new heights.The Hawks have arrived, thanks to the arrival of coach Mark Fowler almost five years ago. The team even tied Garaway for the Div. III district title crown this year.Much of that success is attributed to Blochlinger and his efforts, and now track and field has become en vogue once again at Hiland.“I think there will be many more great things to come,” said Blochlinger. “Especially with Coach at the helm. I am proud of the way I improved and how the program progressed the last three years. That is what I will take with me from my time in track.”Some may remember Blochlinger for this state effort in his senior season. But those who know him the effort he has put into his trade will remember him as an athlete who breathed life into a dying program.