Alysah Hickey is a sophomore at the University of Oregon. Hickey has been a member of the Oregon track & field team for the past three years, competing mainly in the long jump. She is a well-versed athlete who is also competitive in the 60 meters, high jump, and 4×100-meter relay.
When I asked her how she started the long jump, Hickey explained that she tried many different events and picked what made her feel best. Notably talented in high school, she was destined to compete as a top athlete.
During our interview we discussed the power of female athletes, empowering girls to participate in sports, and the demand for representation of African-American female athletes. Before attending Oregon, Hickey attended Coronado High School in Coronado, California, where she was a part of the track team. She started long jumping her Junior year in high school. Alysah was drawn to the University of Oregon as her mom and grandparents are Oregon natives. She explained that Oregon felt like home, and “Eugene TrackTown is the best place to be as a runner.”
Alysah described a positive experience as a student athlete at the University of Oregon. Having Hayward Field as her home track feels almost surreal, given the innovation and resources it provides. When I asked her about the UO’s resources to support the whole student-athlete, she explained a series of educational and physical elements. Examples include tutoring, physical therapy, cold and hot tubs, school supplies, and breakfast at the Hatfield-Dowlin complex. Hickey expressed that her relationship with Head Coach, Robert Johnson, has empowered her to become a better athlete.
Last season, Hickey placed first in the long jump and third in the high jump at the PAC-12 Championship. Last weekend Hickey defended her PAC-12 title in the long jump, winning with a jump of 21’0.5. During her indoor season, Alysah jumped her current personal best of 21’10.5. I asked her how she prepared for the PAC-12 Championship. She responded, “I perfected my runway with finishing touches… but for me, it’s very mental, and I focus on implementing a winning mindset”. She mentioned that her professor gave her a shout-out in class for winning the PAC-12 Championship. It made her feel proud to represent the University of Oregon.
As a young girl and to the present day, Hickey’s greatest inspiration is her mom. She explains that growing up with a strong female role model as her mom “motivated me to embody her courage and strength.” Her mom attends every track meet, and their close bond is commendable. By allowing her to try different sports, her mom provided the opportunity for Alysah to compete in the sport she loves. As a DI athlete, Hickey has access to exciting opportunities but recognizes that being a student-athlete is a big commitment. Hickey has learned to balance school, track, and maintain her happiness outside of sports during her time at UO. Alysah said she is “looking forward to all the upcoming events at Hayward, and I hope to see you there.”