Fredericktown’s track and field program capped its season with historic performances at the OHSAA Jesse Owens State Championships, held June 4–7 at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium.
The Bulldogs returned home with a state champion, multiple school records, and podium finishes that underscored the program’s growing strength.
Junior Jenny Alexander delivered one of the highlights of the meet in the girls pole vault. She cleared 12 feet to set a new Fredericktown school record and secure third place overall in Division IV. Her mark also ranked among the top 20 in Ohio this season, earning six team points and giving the Bulldogs their first medal of the weekend.
Senior Ella Bouton added to the team’s tally that same day with a fifth‑place finish in the discus. Her throw of 135 feet, 6 inches capped a steady season of improvement and showcased her versatility as a multi‑event competitor.
Friday brought Fredericktown’s biggest moment. Bouton stepped into the shot put circle and unleashed a throw of 46 feet even — a personal best, a new school record, and the winning mark in Division IV. The performance crowned her as a state champion, placing her among the top 40 throwers nationally and third in Ohio for the 2026 season. Bouton’s victory added 10 points to Fredericktown’s team score and etched her name into program history as one of its most decorated athletes.
Reflecting on her achievements, Bouton shared a heartfelt message with the community on Instagram.
“Hard to believe today is the last time I will compete in a Fredericktown uniform," she wrote. "I am truly blessed to have such an amazing community, coaches, teammates and family supporting me throughout my track journey. I’m excited to see what is soon to come. Go Green! And as always go Freds!”
The boys also made their presence felt. Junior Cooper Rine advanced to the Division IV preliminaries of the 110‑meter hurdles, clocking 15.64 seconds. The Bulldogs’ 4x200 relay team — Rine, Tanner Estep, Staut Murilo, and Blake Sipes — posted a time of 1:32.40 in the prelims, showcasing depth and teamwork on the state stage.
As the season closes, Fredericktown’s athletes can look back on a championship meet filled with grit, talent, and record‑breaking performances.
