New program has Marble Falls grad Kason O’Riley setting new heights
CAPTION: Marble Falls High School graduate Kason O’Riley is set to make his debut as a member of the Texas State University track and field team. Courtesy photo Texas State University
No rest for those who are serious about success. That’s the best way to describe Texas State University high jumper Kason O’Riley.
The morning after cheering on his alma mater, the Marble Falls Mustangs, to a 61-56 victory against Lampasas, O’Riley was at a track participating in the circuit that works on his core with teammate Aiden Hayes.
The two are preparing for the indoor season, which begins at the Ted Nelson Invitational hosted by Texas A&M University Jan. 24-25.
“It’s going to be a good meet,” O’Riley said.
The high jumper is putting himself in position for success. After starting his college career at the University of Oklahoma and the University of Arkansas, he transferred to Texas State University last summer.
“I’ve made the best grades,” he said. “It was a great start to the year for me.”
O’Riley credits Texas State jumps and multis coach Kendall Gustafson Filip for the training, that includes circuits, that have propelled him to clearing higher heights at a more consistent level.
“She’s been putting me through it,” he said. “I’m jumping the best I’ve ever jumped – 7 (feet) 2 (inches).”
He began clearing that height in November and what’s scary for the competition is O’Riley believes he’s just getting started.
“For me, it’s my form,” he said, adding the strength and conditioning program also is a factor. “I’m in great shape. They’re putting me in a good mind space. In high school, I was that guy – the one to beat. Now I’m the guy who’s not going to be beat. I’m going in there thinking that.”
Because he has put in the work and is getting the results he wants, O’Riley has something back every athlete needs.
“I’ve had a little dip in my confidence for a couple of years,” he said. “Being back in Texas, my mindset is the best it’s ever been. In my mind, I’m about to walk in there and win.”
One goal is to break the Sun Belt Conference indoor and outdoor records in the event. The indoor is 7-3 and the outdoor is 7-4.5.
“In my mind, I won’t have a problem jumping that,” he said.
He grinned when he thought back to what he walked into at Max Copeland Gym. His parents, Katy and Shawn, were with him, and they were immediately greeted by old friends, who were thrilled to see them.
In addition, O’Riley wore his Team USA jacket, the gear he earned as a member of the team when he represented the country at the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association Games in 2023.
“It really shows all the support I have there,” he said. “(My parents) have been with me throughout my career. It means a lot to me to have the townspeople behind me.”
He is on track to graduate at the end of 2025 then he plans to turn pro.
“That’s my ultimate goal,” O’Riley said.
A few days after he competes at the Texas A&M meet, he’ll compete in another tough competition – a slam dunk contest during the Texas State men’s basketball game’s half-time game against Louisiana-Lafeyette.
What does he get if he wins?
“A bit of pride,” he said with a laugh. “I’m going up against a high jumping teammate and couple of baseball players.”
