Track and Field | 5/12/2026 7:12:00 AM

CLINTON -- Five student-athletes from the Clinton High School track and field program signed national letters of intent on Tuesday, May 12, on the campus of CHS.

Andraeia Cavett, Khamrin Harper, Aiden Knox, and Dwight Palmer, Jr., signed their commitments to the University of Southern Mississippi, while Carter Parks continues his hurdling career at Meridian Community College next school year.

The signing ceremony, held in the CHS Auditorium, celebrated the accomplishments of the standout student-athletes as they were joined by family members, teammates, coaches, and friends.

Cavett was a three-year member of the Coast Guard JROTC program, helping build leadership discipline, and teamwork skills during her time at Clinton. On the track, Cavett qualified for the 2026 state meet in both the 100-meter hurdles and 300-meter hurdles while setting the school record in the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 13.95 seconds.

"I chose the University of Southern Mississippi because it felt like the right place for me," Cavett said. "The coaches believed in me, and I know USM will help me grow both as a student and an athlete.

"This opportunity means a lot to me because it shows that all of my hard work has paid off. I'm thankful for everyone who supported me, and I'm excited to continue my track and academic career at the next level," Cavett added.

Harper was a three-time state champion with the Lady Arrows, winning individual Class 7A state titles in the 200 meters during 2025 and 2026 seasons. Harper posted personal-best times of 11.89 seconds in the 100 meters and 24.28 seconds in the 200 meters. She also earned team MVP honors and served as a team captain during her final two seasons with the program.

In addition to her individual accomplishments, Harper was part of the CHS-record-setting 4x400-meter relay team.

Harper plans to major in psychology at Southern Miss and said the university's coaching staff and positive atmosphere helped solidify her decision.

"This is just the beginning, and I'm excited to keep building on everything I've worked for," Harper said.

Knox, a seven-time track and field All-American, posted personal-best times of 10.51 seconds in the 100 meters and 21.31 seconds in the 200 meters during his career with the Arrows. He is also a member of National Honor Society.

Knox said his connection with the coaching staff and campus atmosphere played a major role in his decision to continue his career at Southern Miss.

"The reason I chose the University of Southern Mississippi is because it felt like home when I visited, and I know I can get better there," Knox said.

Rounding out the future Golden Eagles, Palmer holds personal-best marks of 10.58 seconds in the 100 meters, 21.19 seconds in the 200 meters, and 49 seconds in the 400 meters.

Palmer is a three-time state champion and two-time All-American.

"This opportunity means a lot to me. It has taught me to keep my faith in God because without Him, who am I? Nobody," Palmer said. "I chose Southern Miss because the family atmosphere of the team. When I visited, the athletes and coaches treated me like I already belonged there. I could see myself building strong relationships, staying motivated, and becoming the best version of myself on and off the track.

"I want to thank God, my coaches, family members, and friends for supporting me along the way," Palmer added.

Parks posted a personal-best time of 13.83 seconds in the 110-meter hurdles and 39.02-second mark in the 300-meter hurdles during his Clinton career.

"Meridian has one of the best running programs available in Mississippi," Parks said. "It was close to home, and I know it will provide me with great opportunity."

The Lady Arrows captured their 13th consecutive girls state championship on May in Pearl, while the Arrows reclaimed the boys state title for the first time since 2024.

The Clinton track and field program boasts 17 combined state championships, including 13 girls titles and four boys crowns.

The program is led by Head Girls and Boys Coach Johnathan Perkins and assisted by Christopher Lockhart, Robert Pittman, Ben Prevost, Thomas Tunberg, and Justice Wells.