Salute To Seniors: Brielle Sterns


Name: Brielle Sterns

School: Sahuaro HS

Brielle collected 14 State Championship medals over the course of her career. She won the High Hurdles 3 consecutive years, starting as a freshman and was also a talented Long Jumper. Most recently, she finished her high school career with a 3rd place finish in the 100 Hurdles at Great Southwest with a PR of 14.15. Here, she talks about what volleyball and track have meant to her development as a high school athlete.

Q: What was your most memorable race?

A: I don't have one memorable race. I have two that stand out more than others. One was my first varsity 100H race as a freshman because it gave me confidence. After that, I knew I would do very well. The second was the first time I won state the DII 100H State title my freshman year.

Q: Who did you love competing against over your four years?

A: I loved competing against and with my teammates. From Jamie Holiday in my freshman year to Annie Spencer and Dayaris Bonillas during my senior year. They all helped pushed me to do and be my best because we trained and competed for the team and each other.

Q: What was your greatest accomplishment in high school?

A: My greatest accomplishment in high school is being recruited by D1 schools in two different sports. I have been All-State in volleyball for 3 years. This year our team finished 37 -3 and made it to the state semifinals for the first time in 25 years. Also, during my high school career I won 14 medals at State. This includes being the 3-time, back to back to back, DII 100H State Champ and a Long Jump State title.

(Brielle Sterns wins the 100 Hurdles at the State Champs-photo by John Hays)


Q: If you could do it all over again what would you change about your high school running career?

A: I would change absolute nothing. Everything that occurred and everything I accomplished happened for a reason.

Q: What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

A: The most difficult obstacle I had to overcome was that the high school track and club volleyball seasons are at the same time. After most track practices I had to go to volleyball practice.  Sometimes I had to miss one or the other for a meet or a tournament. This interrupted my track conditioning and training. For instance, this year I had a national qualifying volleyball tournament and the Chandler Invitational the same weekend. I competed in the Chandler Invitational that Saturday night and then played in the volleyball tournament that Sunday morning. Because of this, I was never able to fully get into track shape throughout my high school career. However, I feel competing in these two sports has made me a better overall athlete and gives me plenty of room for growth and improvement in both.

Q: What will you miss the most about competing for Sahuaro?

A: I will miss my teammates, coaches and representing my school. My teammates and I are like sisters.  I am extremely proud of them. I am excited to follow them on the next level.

Q: What advice would you give to younger Sahuaro athletes?

A: My advice is to always believe in yourself and do not accept limitations that others put on you. With hard work and belief and trust in God, you can achieve whatever you desire.

Q: What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?

A: My coach, David Spencer, has shown me that it is not what school you go to or whatever, it is about talent and hard work. He is an example that with the right mindset, all life goals are possible. Coach Spencer has taught me to be fearless in that aspect.

Q: What are your college plans?

A: I will be attending New Mexico State University on a volleyball scholarship.  But I have gotten permission from the volleyball program and will be allowed to compete in track & field as well.  I have already spoken with the track coaches and they are developing a training program to supplement and work around my volleyball schedule.

Q: Who would you like to say 'thank you' to?

A: First I want to thank God. Then my mom and dad for their support.  A huge special thanks to brothers, Bryce and Cole. The both of them received D1 football scholarships. This inspired me and showed me that my dreams were possible. Bryce worked with me in the weight room and Cole showed me how to hurdle and long jump. I want to thank Coach Spencer, all of my teammates and finally everyone who came to watch and support me!