A dedicated ESPNHS team managed the Gatorade State Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year selection process, resulting in winners based on the program's three pillars: athletic production and impact in the 2012 season, high academic achievement and exemplary personal character.

For her 50 fellow Gatorade State Girls Track & Field Athletes of the Year winners, click here.

THE WINNER: Shelbi Vaughan

THE BASICS

School: Legacy (Mansfield, Texas)

Grade: Senior

Event(s): Throws

Height: 6-foot-2

THE PILLARS

Athletic achievement: Vaughan launched the discus 198 feet, 9 inches at this month’s USA Track and Field Junior Outdoor Championships, setting the national high school and junior records in the event. She won the discus at the Class 5A state championships with a throw of 187 feet, 10 inches, and also took first by launching the shot put 50 feet, 1.25 inches.

Academic excellence: Vaughan has maintained a B-plus average in the classroom.

Exemplary character: She has volunteered locally feeding the homeless and assisting physically challenged students in her school.

THE PRAISE

“Shelbi is a gifted athlete and a strong leader,” said Legacy coach Lacy Beckler. “She has helped lead her teammates by example, and the community that surrounds her in Mansfield and at our school adore her.”

THE FUTURE: Vaughan has signed a National Letter of Intent to compete in track and field on scholarship at Texas A&M University this fall.