April 25, 2025, Lancaster ISD/Lancaster, TX -- For the first time since 2010, Lancaster High School will be represented in the UIL State Championship Track Meet in the 800-meter run. Senior Franklin Perez has earned his place on Texas’s biggest stage ending a 15-year gap in the event and setting a powerful new standard for the program.
Perez’s journey to the state meet is more than a story of athletic excellence. It’s a story of resilience, personal growth, and a desire to leave a lasting legacy.
"It is truly an honor and blessing that goes beyond just competing,” Perez said. “I feel like I am carrying the legacy of those before me and inspiring the next generation to chase big goals. Representing my school on this level is something I take great pride in, and I am grateful for the coaches, teammates, and supporters who helped me get there.”
Perez’s path to state has been filled with obstacles, including injuries, tough losses, personal challenges, and unforgettable growth.
“Over the past four years, I faced injuries, setbacks, tough races, and moments of doubt. Having those experiences taught me patience, grit, and to stay focused on long-term goals,” he said. “I’ve learned that success doesn’t come overnight. It is built through consistent work, showing up even when it’s hard and, like Coach Jeremy Wariner and Coach Jason Covarrubias always tell me, ‘trusting the process is the most important thing.’”
As a student-athlete with ADHD and Dyslexia, Perez has developed a strength that extends far beyond the track.
“Balancing academics, athletics, and personal challenges has made me mentally tougher,” he added. “I’ve had to overcome more than just physical barriers, and that’s given me a different kind of strength on the track. Every practice, every early morning, and every finish line over the past four years has led me to this moment. Now, I’m not just running for a medal, I’m running for everything I’ve pushed through to get here.”
Perez’s coach, Olympic gold medalist Jeremy Wariner, has witnessed his transformation firsthand.
“From the start, Franklin has shown that he wanted to make it to state in the 800m,” Wariner said. “In the offseason, he ran cross country to help get his endurance up and was in better shape at the start of the outdoor season. He has worked hard this whole season, and it has shown these past few weeks.”
But it’s not just Perez’s athleticism that’s made an impact, it’s his leadership.
“Franklin has been a big part of this year’s team. Outside of his individual success, he has also stepped up as a team leader. He was also a part of the 4x400m relay team,” Wariner added. “The younger athletes on the team have seen his dedication and growth.”
Now, as Perez prepares to compete at the state level, his coaches believe he’s more than ready.
“Coach Covarrubias and I have talked to him all season about trusting the process and trusting himself,” Wariner continued. “I told him to trust his training and that every meet is still 800 meters. The only thing different is the name of the meet. He is ready to step up at the state meet and get on the podium.”
Looking beyond high school, Perez has his sights set on a future that flies high…literally.
“My future goals post high school are to continue my collegiate track career while pursuing a master’s degree in aeronautics or mechanical engineering,” he said. “I have a passion for commercial airplanes and flying.”
Franklin Perez has not only broken barriers, he’s built bridges for others to follow. With heart, hustle, and high hopes, he’s running for more than medals. He’s running to inspire.