HIGH POINT, N.C.—Three student-athletes have signed National Letters of Intent to join the High Point University track and field program, head coach Mike Esposito has announced.
 
Sprinter/jumper Paul Gore, pole vaulter Mackenzie Horn and distance runner Spencer Smucker will join the Panthers for the 2018-19 season.
 
"The early signees fill specific needs on the men's side while bolstering our women's vault program," Esposito said. "All three are excellent students who have the ability to contribute immediately. We will continue to work on adding to this recruiting class during the second signing period in the spring."
 
Paul Gore
Sprints/Jumps
Raleigh, N.C. | Wake Christian Academy
• USTAF National Junior Olympics Qualifier in 200 meters and 4x100m relay
• 2017 TISAC Most Outstanding Track and Field Performer
• All-conference football player at Wake Christian Academy
 
Coach Shamoya Pruitt on Gore – "Paul has tremendous potential and will contribute immediately to our track and field program both on and off the track. He is a young man with the competitive drive, integrity and character that we look for."
 
Mackenzie Horn
Pole Vault
Lancaster, Pa. | Manheim Township
• National qualifier in pole vault in both indoor and outdoor
• Third place in pole vault at 2017 Pennsylvania state meet
• Has cleared a height of 13'0" on pole vault
 
Coach Scott Houston on Horn - "Mackenzie is going to be an athlete to watch closely. Her potential to compete at the NCAA level immediately will be both exciting and a good indicator for future excellence in the sport of pole vaulting."
 
Spencer Smucker
Distance/Cross Country
West Chester, Pa. | West Chester Henderson
• Ches-Mont Conference Champion in cross country
• Four-time medalist at PIAA state cross country meet
• NXN qualifier
 
Coach Esposito on Smucker – "Spencer comes from an excellent high school program and had a great cross country season. He has great range on the track and possesses all of the qualities we are looking for in a student-athlete."