Willowbrook junior wins State title in IHSA Boys Track and Field

Willowbrook junior Matt Burns is a State champion!

Burns competed in his first Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Boys Track and Field State competition May 24 and 25 and won the 3A 400-meter dash (48.89). He also competed in the 200-meter dash.

“I was surprised and happy,” Burns said about becoming a State champion. “It didn’t hit me I had won until a little after I crossed the finish line. It feels great.”

Burns has been competing in track and field for seven years. He said he has always trained hard, and this year was no exception.

“We have very competitive practices to create the atmosphere of a competition,” Burns said. “We really push each other.”

Burns said his goal is to return to State next year to defend his title, and he is considering adding the 800-meter run to his repertoire. After high school, he plans to continue running in college.

But for now, Burns is enjoying his State title.

“I just wanted to make finals, but after prelims I realized I had a shot to win,” Burns said. “I was more laid back than normal, and I was just excited to be there – it was a great experience.”