BARNESVILLE — Kane Stephens, quite possibly, didn’t get a chance to show just how good he can be in track during his prep career.

Stephens, who was the “fastest runner” on the team according to head coach Dylan Rogers, battled leg problems, which took their toll.

However, when he was healthy, Stephens was a vital cog in the Shamrocks’ success, which included winning the Division III district title.

Stephens — now healthy — will get a chance to showcase his speed at the next level. He recently signed a National Letter of Intent to continue his track and academic careers at Wheeling Jesuit University.

“I wanted to be a student-athlete for the university that’s close to home,” Stephens said of his decision to become a Cardinal. “Jesuit is a place I visited often and enjoyed the campus and city. Plus, they have stellar academics. I am really looking forward to being a part of it.”

Stephens’ primary event for the Shamrocks was the 200 meter dash. He finished second in the OVAC and his season-best time was 23.28. He also qualified for the regional in that event after finishing second in the district.

Along with his individual exploits, Stephens was a part of the Shamrocks’ 4×4 team, which finished fourth in the Division III state meet. He also ran in the regional on the 4×2 team. He earned key points in all three sprint relays during the OVAC meet, too.

“I went out with a bang by ending my high school career by breaking records and placing at the state,” Stephens said. “It was a successful year to say the least.”

Stephens said his desire to place in the state meet was what drove him all season.

“I knew my team was going to make it (to state),” Stephens said. “We all worked so hard and we saw the results.”

Along with his 200 time, Stephens also owned a personal-best in the 100 of 11.7.

“On most teams in the OVAC, Kane would have been their top point scorer,” Rogers said. “I have been very impressed with how much faster he has become the past two seasons.”

Kane, who plans to major in business management, is the son of Amy and Patrick Keiser.