Dickerson is part of one of the top throwing programs in the country (frebergsports.com) |
1. You have really shown promise so far this indoor season as one of the favorites for the title in the weight throw. As a two-time All-American, what are some of your goals for this season?
I have two main goals for the season: to score in SEC and Nationals, and hopefully to win Nationals.
2. The lady Gators could score some major points in the weight throw alone at the national meet. With a strong backbone in the throws for team points, do you feel any pressure to perform at such a high level for a possible national team championship?
Whenever you feel you're in a championship mode, it is stressful. You feel there's always a pressure to perform well, and live up to your expectations.
3. Was it a difficult decision for you to choose Florida as the school where you wanted to attend?
It wasn't hard to choose Florida because of the atmosphere of athletics and academics. The location wasn't far from home, because I'm from Jacksonville. The previous coach recruited me, and received me with open arms.
4. Do you have any difficulty in focusing on the weight throw to the hammer throw once the seasons change?
There's not that much change, but the stress level and the change in weight makes a definite difference. These changes have a big impact. I'm looking forward to the hammer.
5. How important are the Olympic lifts in the weight room and do you start to taper off once the SEC and NCAA Championships approach?
We do taper off during the season. Olympic lifting is our foundation. We focus on heavy lifts during the off season, but when the nationals come around, we focus on quickness and reps.
6. The weather down in Gainesville is great year-round for training outdoors. Do you consider this a big advantage for you and the program to train and compete in?
Being in sunny Florida is a huge advantage. There's no snow, and we always throw in the rain anyway.
7. Speaking of training and competing at certain venues, what are some of your favorite places to compete?
I really liked Nebraska last year, the Adidas Invitational. I really like Arkansas for the Marketplace restaurant and their Cajun ribeye! Yum!
8. Now that the NCAA Championships are right around the corner, what will you work on the most technically in the ring during practice to peak at the right time?
The main focus is to just relax, and all of my preparation will take its course.
9. Who are some of the most influential people in your life and what have they taught you the most?
The people who are the most influential for me are my parents and sisters, because they taught me to be strong and to be a warrior in life. They taught me to believe in myself and in what I do.
10. What do you enjoy the most about being a student-athlete?
Waking up at 6am every morning for practice! No, seriously, going to other places I wouldn't go otherwise.
11. How big does the community of Gainesville support the track & field program?
We're down in the south, so football and basketball are already big. Our high ranking and the large number of good athletes give us exposure in the community. It brings people in to cheer at competitions and to appreciate what we're doing.
12. If you are able to claim the national title in the weight throw, can we expect you to bust out and play the alto saxophone on the awards stand?
That would be very interesting and I'm sure everyone would enjoy that. I'd be willing to do it!