Abaas Hunter was always fast. The question was whether he could learn to compete like a champion.
The Episcopal Academy senior answered that question emphatically, breaking more than 20 school records on his way to becoming one of the Philadelphia area’s most decorated sprinters, and earning a Division I scholarship to the University of North Carolina in the process.
According to Jason Dumas of 6abc, Hunter’s rise wasn’t just about raw talent. It was about developing the mental edge to run alongside older, more experienced athletes before he was ready, and not backing down.
“It’s really just mental and execution. Once you grasp those things and you’re able to compete against those top athletes, it’s easier and easier as time goes on,” he said.
Last year, Hunter claimed the Delaware County record in the 200-meter dash. This season, he added the county’s 400-meter record to his résumé, drawing recruiting interest from college programs across the country before committing to UNC.
What sealed the deal, he said, was the program’s family atmosphere and sense of community.
Hunter credits Episcopal Academy with preparing him for what comes next, not just athletically, but as a person.
“You learn a lot here, and you definitely jump into a lot of fields that you probably wouldn’t think you would get into when you first get here,” said Hunter. “…I just think this school leaves you with a lot of lessons and things you can take on into the future and teach to other people as well.”
To follow Abaas Hunter’s full journey, from breaking records at Episcopal Academy to earning his Division I spot at UNC, head over to 6abc for the complete feature.
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