West Platte senior Cambrie Swope has received her first college scholarship offer to compete in track and field at Missouri Western State University.

Swope, who earned a Class 2 state medal in the discus in May, said the offer affirmed the work she has put into the sport.

“I was honestly really excited and grateful when I received my first scholarship offer from Missouri Western,” Swope said. 

“It was exciting to know that all the work I’ve put into track and field was being recognized, and it made me even more motivated to keep improving.”

Swope said Missouri Western’s coaching staff has discussed developing her skills in the discus while also introducing her to the hammer throw, an event contested at the collegiate level.

“The coach from Missouri Western talked to me about continuing to develop in discus and using my strengths to contribute to the team by doing the hammer throw as well,” she said. “He also made me feel like I have the potential to continue improving at the college level, which is really encouraging.”

Her state medal gave Swope additional confidence entering her senior season.

“Going into my senior season, I want to build off that success, improve my marks and hopefully compete for an even higher spot at state,” she said.

Swope credited the St. Joseph Pony Express Track Club with giving her national-level experience at the Junior Olympics. She also thanked West Platte coach Eric Stout for pushing her in the weight room and helping her develop as an athlete.

Her family, she said, has supported her through meets, practices and “everything in between.”

Swope has not committed to Missouri Western and plans to complete several additional college visits before deciding where to continue her academic and athletic career.

“I want to make sure I choose a school that is the right fit for me both academically and athletically,” she said.