Jarrett Paul represented the United States at the 2011 World Championships as a member of the 2011 USA Roller Sports’ Inline Speed Skating Team. Jarrett’s word of advice to those trying to accomplish their skating goals is to persevere. He stated, “Adversity is part of the game. It took me nine years to make the team for the first time. Finally, you just get tired of losing.”
Years on Team USA:
- 2011
Hometown:
- Las Vegas, NV
Current residence:
- Tampa, FL
High school attended:
- J.W. Mitchell High
Year of graduation:
- 2005
Location of high school:
- New Port Richey, FL
Other high school activities:
- JROTC 2003-2005
College attended:
- SPC Tarpon Campus - Fall 2005- Spring 2006
- MCC Bradenton Campus - Spring 2007
Occupation, current employer:
- BestBuy
Career goals:
- I would like to become a Nutritionist/Dietitian and start my own private practice dedicated to athletes and people serious about making a change in their life.
Current skating club:
- Stardust Speed Club
Coaches name:
- Samuel Johnson, Eric Licata, and Joe Hanah
When did you begin skating:
- 1994
Are you sponsored and if so, by whom:
- I am not currently sponsored.
Future goals you hope to obtain as a skater:
- A newly acquired goal is to become Grand Champion in the NSC, and continue to sweep the distance races. I would also like to compete at the World Championships and earn a gold medal. Accomplishing one or more of these goals will further showcase my hard work and dedication to the sport of speed skating, and continue to encourage and show me that anything is possible.
Team USA Sport Accomplishments:
- United States World Team 2011
Awards, honors and statistics received in roller sports:
- 3rd place overall Indoor Nationals Junior Men 2004, 3rd place overall Indoor Nationals Senior Men 2006, 3000m Senior Men record holder, Indoor Nationals Senior Men overall Champion 2010.
Who is the person you most admire/greatest influence in your life and why:
- My Father was a very resilient and courageous person; spending much of my time with him made me value these rare characteristics. He fought continuously throughout his life and was never afraid to fail. Sometimes the most courageous act is the risk of failure. His fearless attitude towards failure distinguished and fueled his risky behavior, but in turn, highlighted his many successes. The last years of his life taught me more than I cared to learn at the time. It taught me how quickly life can change… that all the success, natural talent, and gifted intelligence can be taken so easily if you follow the wrong path. I admire him for his accomplishments, and the ability to persevere no matter how grim a situation became.
List your hobbies:
- Call Of Duty: Black Ops & MW3
What music do you listen to during training or competition?
- It just really depends on the mood, but usually: hip hop, rap, and rock.
Favorite food before a competition:
- Pasta
Favorite movie:
- Butterfly Effect
Most prized possession:
- My skates and Playstation 3
If you could pick one word to describe you, what would it be:
- Tenacious
Father’s name:
- Alan Paul R.I.P 06/12/10
Mother’s name:
- Michelle Mathews
Brothers:
- Kris and Cameron Mathews