Courtesy of Coppin State Athletic Communications
The 2019 MEAC champion in the 60-meter hurdles, Aaron Lewis has been a standout for the Eagles the last four seasons. A native of Scarborough, Trinidad & Tobago, Lewis owns the Coppin State school record in both the 60-meter hurdles (7.78) and 110-meter hurdles (13.64) and was a 2018 Honorable Mention All-America selection in the 110-meter hurdles after also winning the ECAC/IC4A Championship. Lewis took the silver at the MEAC Championships in the hurdles three other times before winning the event as a senior.
Why Did You Choose Coppin State?
I chose Coppin because they were the only school showing genuine interest in me. As an athlete, we may always want to go to the flashiest school because to us it may equate to a better program or coaching, which I've come to realize isn't the truth. You want a school that has your best interest in mind on and off the field. You want a program that sticks with you even when you're not on your best game when it comes to your sport. My coaches really do give 200% and even though we may disagree at times I do know it's for the betterment of myself and the program.
What is your Major and what would you like to do with it after graduation?
I'm a sport management major. With my degree I would love to go into youth development through sport and become a track and field coach. I really do have a passion for the sport, and I see me in it for the rest of my life. I have a passion for seeing young people doing great things. I see that sport helps with many social issues that us as youth and young adults face on a day to day basis. I also like sport media, and that has gotten my attention recently, so that is something I would also like to get into.
Are there any professors, faculty or staff members at Coppin that have made a lasting impact on you (Who & Why)?
My favorite professor is Dr. Eugene (Interim Chair/STEM Coordinator) Although he didn't teach me, he made an impression on me that would last a lifetime. He's a very smart man and he believes that a connection with students outside of the classroom is a as important as the one in the classroom. For some students, they may not have a figure in their life that is genuinely there for them that only wants nothing but the beat for them. Another of my favorite staff members is Mrs. Vera Carrington-Johnson (Academic Compliance Specialist). She's like a mother figure to a lot of the athletes on various teams. She always looks out and checks in on you to make sure that your staying on top of your work and that you're staying mentally sound. She's another one that sees the importance of building relationships with people and not just doing her assigned job. Ms. Nichole Person is another member of staff I look up to. When you're around her, and interact with her, you feel as though you need to be on your best, and I like that. Being around individuals that inadvertently make you want to be better, that command a level of professionalism but to also find fun and enjoyment in doing things is always good. And, of course my track coaches.
Did you play any other sports growing up and what made you decide on track & field? Who were your favorite athletes growing up and why?
I played soccer, basketball, and volleyball growing up, but I switched to track because of my best friend who at the time ran track and was always traveling to different countries to compete. And, I wasn't the biggest of kids growing up. My favorite athletes growing up were Kelly-Ann Baptiste, Jehue Gordon and my event rival Ruebin Walters. Outside of track, my favorite was legendary F1 driver Michael Schumacher and Cristiano Ronaldo when he played for Manchester United.
What was your favorite memory from running track at Coppin State?
My favorite memory of running track for Coppin was making it to NCAA Nationals in my event (110m hurdles).
Is there anything that you have learned so far in regards to this global epidemic with COVID-19 and will it cause you to change anything in your life?
I've learned that when there is a crisis, people can become very selfish and don't listen or follow instructions. Nothing is ever taken seriously until it's knocked at your door. I've learned not to take anything for granted, even the simple things, like hanging out with friends or talking walks. Live in the moment but plan for the future.
What are songs that are on your Quarantine Playlist?
My quarantine playlists are all over the place, but I'm mainly listening to UK grim/rap, gospel, soca/dance hall, regular American rap/hip hop and the occasional R&B just depending on my mood.
The NCAA Committee has voted to give eligibility relief to all student-athletes who participate in spring sports. What does getting an extra year to run track mean to you?
It means a lot to me. I love my sport and being given an extra year means another opportunity for me to capitalize and be better than I was previously. I am going to use this time to build up my general strength and flexibility, so when the time comes, I'll be ready to prepare for an amazing season in 2021.