Logan to run track, Smith to play volleyball, run track

Tyler Logan

Landrum track coach Russell Mahaffey has left a lasting impression on star track athlete Tyler Logan, who signed to run track at North Greenville on Thursday, May 5.

“He expressed good Christian values that made me a better athlete,” Logan said.

And according to Mahaffey, the Crusaders are getting a strong athlete.

“Tyler has been blessed with an immense amount of speed,” Mahaffey said.

Logan has run for Mahaffey for six years and holds the 200-meter record and was a part of a record-breaking 4×100-meter run. North Greenville had a lot of appeal for Logan. The atmosphere and its “beautiful scenery” was one.

“It’s a great school and it’s close to home,” Logan said.

Close to home was a factor that made his mom, Sandy, happy as well, as she beamed with pride on Thursday.

“I’m extremely proud that he’s taking advantage of the opportunity at North Greenville,” she said.

As for Logan’s future, Mahaffey has high hopes for his talented athlete.

“My hope is that Tyler will continue to work on his ability as a track athlete and I look forward to seeing his accomplishments at the next level,” Mahaffey said.

Savanna Smith

Landrum’s Savanna Smith signed to play two sports at North Greenville on Thursday, May 5.

Smith was a volleyball standout and is currently in the midst of a successful track campaign. Thursday was the endgame for a long, calculated plan by the senior.

“Ever since I was in ninth grade, I wanted to be a part of their volleyball team,” she said. “I wanted to make that my goal for my high school career and I’m glad I’m reaching it.”

Smith was an integral part of the Cardinal volleyball team this season.

“She was an excellent player,” head coach Denise Riske said. “She devoted a lot of time training the summer before her senior year.”

An ankle injury interrupted her year, but she thrived before and after, Riske said. On the track team, she’s had a successful career as a sprinter and jumper and she’s not finished yet. This season she set a personal record of over 15 feet in her long jump. She’s competing for the Upper State Championship in the 200 meter, the long jump and the 4×100.

“She’s a very impressive lady and a team player,” Mahaffey said.

“We’re proud parents of a dual-sport athlete,” her mom Carolyn Smith said. “She’s worked hard since seventh grade.”