What is the biggest misconception about what it takes to be an elite professional athlete?
The biggest misconception is that you can get by on talent
alone. When you leave high school and go to college, you have to step your game
up. And even when you make it to the professional level, you are working to get
better because you have younger individuals who are ready to take your spot.
What was your biggest struggle when you were trying to
re-establish your career?
The biggest personal struggle was dealing with people
writing me off and thinking that I was washed up. People didn’t want to give me
a chance, but I had to work and keep a positive mind. I just had to be in the
right position and stay patient.
What was your lowest point before you made the 2008 U.S.
Olympic Team?
In 2007, I had no sponsorship and I had a full-time job. I
had to get up at 6 a.m. and I got off at 2 p.m. to go train. At that point, I
was working construction at the Georgia State University dorms. During the
winter, it was so cold that I thought my fingers and toes would fall off. But
every day, I had to find a way to stay positive. I would run the stairs at the
Georgia State University dorms to stay in shape during my lunch break. I had a
lot of people in my corner and a lot of support. … Everyone goes through obstacles. You have to pick yourself back up. It
will be tough, but you have to stay positive.
How has your experience helped you personally?
My outlook on life is totally different now. I have to be a
role model for my kids and other kids in the community. People have come to me
and told me that I inspire them. Sometimes it amazes me. I just want to give
back and share what I have learned.
You’ve won gold medals, and now you’ve been inducted into the Georgia Tech Hall of Fame. How does it feel to grab the brass ring?
I never knew what success would be like before I experienced it. … It feels good to set goals and achieve them.
