Goessel home schoolers score in throwing
Staff writer
Rachel Talbert, a junior from Goessel, placed second in the discus at the KU Relays. With a throw of 144 feet 10 inches, Rachel fell short of her best throw of 147-5, which also is the state's best this season.
An accomplishment for any student, this win is extra special to Rachel because she is home schooled. Students who are home schooled can't go on to state tournaments, so "the KU Relays are like our state," said Mark Talbert, Rachel's father.
Home-schooled students must also make special arrangements for practicing. The Talberts have a throwing area in their driveway and drive to Newton to participate in the Panthers and into Wichita several times a week to practice with the Wichita Warriors.
The Panthers and Warriors are members of the Kansas Christian Athletic Association (KCAA), an organization that offers the opportunity to participate in extra curricular activities for home-schooled students and private schools.
The fees for playing are steep, says Mark Talbert, "and if the kids don't practice and perform their best, they don't get to play."
Mark felt it was good experience though, "They have a lot of fun and build some great relationships."
Rachel's not the only Talbert with athletic ability. Her brother John was the only freshman to compete in the discus. In fact, according to Mark, all of her siblings are "at the same level, they're going out and dominating."
