Luling’s Brandon Singleton makes strides at 2009 Junior Olympics

Brandon Singleton, 12, of Luling traveled to Des Moines, Iowa for the 2009 Junior Olympics and earned a silver medal for his accomplishments in the 80-meter hurdle competition for the Midgets division.

He also qualified for the long jump position and placed ninth overall in that track and field event.

Brandon’s father and coach, Nate Singleton, says that his son won first place in a hurdles competition and has competed since 2007.

“Brandon has a strong work ethic,” he said. “My goal as his father and coach is to keep practice fun for him, never allow it to feel like work for him, but to also teach him all that I know.”

As a seventh grader at J.B. Martin Middle School, Brandon practices three times a week in addition to remaining active in other sports.

“We also teach Brandon the importance of nutrition and rest for athletes,” said Nate. “And he excels in all sports - basketball, football, track - but is absolute favorite is fishing. He truly loves to fish.”

Brandon competed against 80,000 kids at this year’s AAU competition. Approximately 40 kids from southeastern Louisiana also traveled to the annual event.