Spencer Thomas has made his mark this season with a long list of accomplishments and records for the Spring Valley history books. In addition to setting the school’s record for the 5k run at 16 minutes and 37 seconds , Thomas was awarded the Yellow Jersey which is given to top 20 cross country runners in the district.

Thomas is the first to receive the Yellow Jersey in Spring Valley’s history. In addition, Thomas was invited to the Las Vegas Review-Journal’s Best of Nevada Preps All-star team from the 2016-17 school year, as well as the Nike invitational which is cross national race striving to get athletes known around the world.

While his accomplishments have not gone unnoticed this season, the road to success wasn’t always so clear. Last season Thomas struggled with major setbacks including him breaking his leg during the track season, and breaking his elbow in a car accident. Because last year took a toll on him, Thomas admitted he didn’t expect to excel this season.

“I was surprised with how well I did this season,” said Thomas.

Thomas looked to his older brother, Steven Thomas who was also a cross country runner as a role model. This past season he was able to make his brother proud and beat his record of 17 minutes flat. While his other accomplishments meant a lot, this was most important.

Varsity cross country Coach Jean Rees is overjoyed by Thomas’ accomplishments this season.

“I think he had a little boost when it came to him doing really well at divisional,” said Coach Rees.

He started to push himself even further which led him to regionals and at the end he earned himself a state spot.

“He has had an exceptional season and I’m very proud of him,” said Coach Rees.

She believes that all of Thomas’ hardships has shaped him into a resilient young man.

“Coach Oliver and I are very pleased to watch Spencer grow as runner and a student. All his accomplishments are well deserved,” said Coach Rees.

Although Thomas had a phenomenal season, he’s not worried about breaking records but improving his own goals.

“Holding the record isn’t what’s important to me, but seeing how much I was able to improve upon my old personal record,” said Thomas. “That others think my limits to be and showing that I can be better than I am right now is what I’m proud of.”