Running the gamut

At many schools the term “student-athlete” is uttered tongue-in-cheek. One sophomore standout is a shining example of Portland State’s dedication to the true spirit of the term.

Jordan Senn is a busy man, but that’s how he likes it. Splitting time between track and field, football and a college education, Senn has managed to excel in everything to which he sets his mind. This level of dedication is a valuable asset to any student, and it rings especially true for student-athletes. “Its extremely important to the program,” defensive coordinator Greg Lupfer said. “His dedication in the classroom means he will always be out there on the practice field, and what he does in that classroom transfers to what else he does in life.”

A highly acclaimed athlete and gifted student, Senn is no stranger to time management.” I’ve gotten used to balancing my time,” Senn said. “I have to be efficient.”

In this case, efficiency manifests itself in greatness. Senn already holds the Portland State University javelin record. The mark is made all the more impressive by the fact that the sophomore considers the sport something of a vacation. “It’s nice to have a sport where I can relax,” Senn said, “like a hobby.”

In between these hobbies, which also include snowboarding and surfing, Senn has made an impact on the gridiron. While splitting time at safety, the Beaverton native became one of the Big Sky Conference’s premier special teams’ players. “As far as character goes, he’s one of the best players we’ve had,” Lupfer said.

With two more weeks of spring football practice, anticipation is mounting for the upcoming season. Games against Oregon State and Boise State highlight a schedule that will test the Portland State squad and give Senn an opportunity to face off against players who are bound for the NFL.

Jordan Senn shredded his way through high school athletics, earning All-State accolades in both track and field and football. He was presented with the opportunity to compete for any number of Pac-10 teams, but instead chose Portland State. Citing proximity to his family and the coaches’ attitude towards football, Senn is happy to be a Viking. Not one for the sprawling campuses of Corvallis and Eugene, he also said with a grin, “I’m halfway between the mountains and the beach.”

While Senn is talented enough to ply his athletic ability as a trade, the man has other plans. Studying physical activity and exercise, Senn has managed a 3.83 GPA. He hopes to parlay his education and athletic experience into a career that will keep him active. “My whole life I’ve been an athlete, so I want to know how everything in the body works,” he said. ” I’ve thought about becoming an athletic trainer or paramedic, but I’ll think about that when I get there.”

For many athletes, the end of college is the end of the road. There are precious few opportunities to continue competition after the collegiate level, but Senn plans to stay near the sport no matter what path he needs to take. “I couldn’t imagine life without football,” he said. ” I’ll play just to play, if it means coaching at a high school, helping a coach, whatever. I love the game.”