Quincy Chery is a runner. The Huntington High School senior has been a mainstay of the Blue Devils’ cross country and track and field programs. The teenager is the reigning Suffolk outdoor 400m hurdles champ, but he has his eye on several other events and medals right now.
Chery and Blue Devil track coach Ron Wilson have forged a close working relationship. Wilson not only guides the teenager in track, but he’s a mentor, too.
“Quincy is a really good kid and a very hard worker,” Wilson said. The coach encourages his protégé to be the best version of himself on the track and in the classroom. Grades count. They are important. It’s a message that been preached to Chery for many years.
The senior hasn’t finalized his college plans yet, but Wilson believes that Chery will ultimately choose a school that is close to home. The Blue Devil county champ wants to run track in college.
Chery considers Wilson to be a member of his family. That’s how much the teenager trusts and appreciates his coach, who is always working to lessen the stress on the teenager.
The senior doesn’t call attention to himself. Chery is shy and avoids the spotlight. Of course, the enjoys a pat on the back and acknowledgement that he is one of Suffolk’s best, if not among the finest in the state. But he doesn’t seek out attention. He’s just as happy when his team wins as he is when he captures a gold medal.
Chery has said that he feels his time at Huntington High School has been “fantastic.” He’s well known around the building by teachers, deans, coaches and Principal Brenden Cusack. He’s friendly, but reserved. He doesn’t make much noise, typically preferring to stay in the background.
This winter, Chery is concentrating on the long jump, 600m run and 4x400m relay. He’s looking to run down his goals, one by one. The three events are different enough that they keep him busy during after school practices as he goes about seeking to refine his techniques in each and peak his performances for league, county and state championships.
Chery loves to compete. It’s why he spends so many hours training. Wilson has seen what his protégé is capable of doing. The pair hope there are several more gold medals in store in the near future.