CARROLLTON, Ga. — During the Georgia High School Association’s Class 6A state track meet, Alcovy’s Tioni Parker earned a top-10 finish. 

The meet was held in Carrollton at Carrollton High School from May 12-14. 

In the shot put competition, Parker finished with 35 feet, five inches, earning her eighth in the state. 

At first, Parker said she was discouraged, but that feeling was quickly replaced with gratitude for concluding her junior season with a top finish at state. 

“I was amazed how much competition there was and how many girls who threw shot put this year,” Parker said. “When I stood on the championship podium, I then realized my accomplishments and felt a great sense of pride for my school, county and the [Newton-Rockdale] surrounding areas.” 

Parker recognized that, in her preparation for the state meet, she continued doing a few throws so she didn’t look form. She was also cautious of not wearing herself out leading up to the competition. 

When all was said and done, Parker pointed to her mindset, too, going into the state meet as a difference maker. 

“I accomplished my finish by giving it my all each time regardless of what others were doing,” Parker said. “I was constantly trying to beat myself regardless of me doing it or not.” 

Now, Parker is heading into the summer with big plans. She said she wants to learn a few new techniques but, above all, Parker stressed the importance of lifting weights more. 

When next season commences, Parker will be a senior for the Alcovy track program. With that in mind, Parker acknowledged the impact she could make on the program and her teammates in her final year. 

“It feels amazing to be the senior leader for my team but it will also feel the same as every year,” Parker said. “I always coached my teammates hard and I do everything with them 10 times harder so they don’t feel like they’re in it alone.”