By: Norman O'Neal
Voorhees University student-athletes delivered an outstanding performance at the 2025 United States of America Track and Field (USATF) U20 Championships, held June 19–20 in Eugene, Oregon. This prestigious meet brought together top young athletes from across the country. To be eligible, participants must be at least 14 years old on the day of competition and must not turn 20 at any point during 2025.
Among the standout performers were twin brothers Jayden and Jaylen Burris. Jayden competed in both the long jump and triple jump, while Jaylen participated in the triple jump. Jayden earned a silver medal in the long jump with a mark of 7.40 meters (24'3.5") and secured a bronze in the triple jump, reaching 15.60 meters (51'2.25"). Jaylen also delivered an exceptional performance, finishing second in the triple jump with a leap of 15.83 meters (51'11.25"). Their second-place finishes qualified both athletes for the upcoming Pan American U20 Championships, scheduled for July 11–13, 2025, in Villavicencio, Colombia.
The Pan American U20 Championships showcase elite athletes from North, Central, and South America, as well as the Caribbean. The top two finishers in each event at the USATF U20 Championships are selected to represent the United States. However, due to safety concerns for athletes and coaches, the U.S. has decided not to send qualified athletes to this year's Pan American Games in Colombia.
Notable schools competing in the long jump and triple jump events at the U20 Championships included the University of Georgia, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, University of Wisconsin, Penn State, University of Oregon, Saint Francis College, Stanford University, University of Virginia, Norfolk State University, Tennessee State University, West Point, Eastern Illinois, and Texas A&M.
Jaylen's mark of 15.83 meters also meets the qualifying standard for the 2025 Toyota USATF Outdoor Championships, which will be held in Eugene from July 31 to August 3. Reflecting on the experience, Jaylen said, "I had a great experience at the USATF U20 Championships. I was able to represent not only my school but also all HBCUs and HBCU athletes."
Jayden shared, "The U20 Championship experience went very well for me. The atmosphere was amazing, and the competition was elite. I was able to hit a big PR and place in the top 3 in both of my events."
Coach Hughes expressed his pride in the Burris twins, stating, "I am proud of these young men. Not only did they compete well, but they also represented Voorhees University extremely well. It was incredible to hear the announcer repeatedly say 'Voorhees University, Denmark, South Carolina' over the intercom during the jumps and the awards ceremonies. Numerous coaches commented on how well the twins performed."
Mrs. Charlene Johnson, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics at Voorhees University, added, "Jayden and Jaylen have shown what commitment, discipline, and pride in their university can produce. Their success on the national stage is a reflection of the hard work of our coaching staff and the support of our entire athletic program. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and how they continue to uplift the legacy of Voorhees University."
Voorhees University President Dr. Ronnie Hopkins stated, "We are extremely proud of the athletic and academic performance of Jayden and Jaylen Burris. Their outstanding achievements are a testament to hard work, dedication, and passion for excellence."
Jayden and Jaylen Burris's remarkable performances on the national stage not only highlight their personal dedication and talent but also shine a spotlight on Voorhees University and the broader HBCU community, inspiring pride and paving the way for future generations of student-athletes to pursue excellence and represent their institutions with distinction.
About Voorhees University: Founded in 1897 by Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, Voorhees University is a private, coeducational institution affiliated with the Episcopal Church and the United Negro College Fund. Driven by a mission to cultivate well-rounded graduates who integrate intellect and faith, the university emphasizes lifelong learning, healthy living, societal betterment, and a strong belief in God. Voorhees University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral degrees. More details are available at the Voorhees website (www.voorhees.edu). Questions about the accreditation of Voorhees University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website (www.sacscoc.org)
