For UT High School junior Gavin Matias, enrolling in the online Texas diploma program last year was not just an educational choice, but a decision to go “all in” on track, trading the traditional high school experience for the flexibility to train at an elite level.

The Temple resident has compressed years of achievement into a remarkably short time. Though he only started running track in 8th grade, the late start hasn’t held him back. This past year alone brought a cascade of accolades: double area champion, Junior Olympics competitor in both the 400m and 800m, national runner-up at the AAU Club Championships in Florida, and being named two-time All-American. Most recently, he was posted as the favorite to win the 2-3A Texas State championship in the 400m next year. 

Gavin's father loved running and instilled that love in his son. Along with his mother's support, this family foundation fuels every competition. For now, Gavin is focused on the next race, the next championship, and the next step toward competing in a Division 1 program like University of Oregon, Baylor or UT Austin and representing his country at the Olympics.