Jaydon Hibbert goes professional, says farewell to University of Arkansas
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s triple jump prodigy Jaydon Hibbert has signed a professional contract, ending his NCAA career at the University of Arkansas after just one year – a dominant lone season in which he swept all in front of him.
Hibbert made the announcement on his Instagram account on Thursday. He did not state which company he has signed for, but he had signed a Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) contract with German shoe company Puma last year.
“You have been more than just a school to me, You’ve been a family! To all my coaches, teammates and professors, you’ve shaped me into themathlete and person I am today! You’ve instilled in me the RAZORBACK spirit which I’ll carry with me on my professional journey!” he posted.
“This journey has been filled with unforgettable moments, victories and lessons that I wouldn’t trade for anything. The roar of the crowd at every track-meet, the camaraderie, the grind , the triumphs, and even the injuries….each has carved a piece of my heart and soul!” he said, “As i say goodbye to my NCAA eligibility and step into my professional career, I do so with a heart full of gratitude. I’m not leaving behind the Razorback family, I’M TAKING IT WITH ME! . The red and white will always be a part of me, no matter where this path takes me.”
In saying goodbye to Arkansas he said, “Thank You, University of Arkansas for the memories, the lessons and for shaping a kid with a dream into becoming a pro athlete. Here’s to the next adventure ….always carrying the spirit of the Razorback with me! Kickin’ it here always in Fayetteville.”
In his lone season at Arkansas, Hibbert won the NCAA indoors and outdoor titles as well as the South-Eastern Conference (SEC) double while setting World Under 20 records in both indoor and outdoors.
His season ended in an anti-climactic fashion as, after registering the longest jump of the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary in August – 17.70m on his only attempt in the prelims – he suffered a hamstring injury on his first attempt in the final and was unable to continue.
-Paul A Reid
