photos by: Ernie Masche
The picture of positivity and the very definition of dedication, rising senior and Bandys High School standout athlete, Raelle Brown, learned the importance of personal goals at a young age.
“My parents, Wes and Michelle Brown, have always been my biggest inspiration. Growing up, I watched them put 100 percent into everything they did, no matter how tired or busy they were,” Rae shares. “They’ve made countless sacrifices to support me and my goals, and seeing their work ethic has taught me what real dedication looks like. I carry that with me every day, no matter if I’m at practice, in a meet or just trying to push through a tough day. I never want to let them down – and I always put my full effort into everything I do.”
Most recently, that maximum effort has earned her 3rd Place at the NCHSAA 2A State Championships – in both the 300-meter hurdles and her 4×400 meter relay!
She previously set new school records in the 100-meter hurdles and as anchor of that 4x400m Relay team. Rae was also named MVP of the Catawba County Championship Meet, earned the title 2025 CVAC Conference Sprinter of the Year and helped lead the Lady Trojans to 1st Place team victories at every championship meet. Also a Bandys High School cheerleader, she carried a 4.425 GPA in her junior year, earning academic awards as well. Her impeccable work ethic has brought many accolades on the track, in the classroom and as a teammate, for which she is grateful.
“Heading into my senior year, I look forward to making every moment of my final year meaningful. I hope to finish high school having made a positive impact on my peers, plus being someone younger grades can look up to,” she adds.
Rae also cherishes the amazing bond she shares with her track teammates.
“We’ve been through hard practices after long school days, tough losses, exciting wins and everything in between. Being a part of this team as a whole – including my 4×400 relay team where we share in each other’s achievements and victories – is very rewarding. My relay team is made up of girls I truly consider close friends. Pushing each other to give everything we can during our events creates a bond for everyone on the team. We celebrate each other’s victories like they are our own, and we pick each other up when needed. That’s what has made my high school experience truly unforgettable!
Besides maintaining her course schedule and academics this coming year, Rae hopes to improve some of her personal track records and walk away knowing she gave it everything she had! While being a student athlete has its challenges, she’s learned to focus only on academics while she’s in class and focus on training when she’s at the track.
“I learned early on that discipline and time management are everything! Staying on task with whatever side I’m working on in that moment and keeping them separate – either track or school – has been crucial. It allows me to keep my head clear of any distractions, keeping me 100 percent focused on my task at hand,” she shares.
Her other stellar advice: Don’t be afraid to take a break and breathe!
When she’s not on the track, Rae volunteers at local schools and libraries, and trains nonstop, including off-season meets to challenge herself against top talent statewide. Collegiate track is definitely her dream – as is a degree in graphic design.
For this soon-to-be senior and her teammates, camaraderie is key – and the future couldn’t be brighter!
