Barrett Nugent received his high school diploma from North Vermilion nearly two months ago, but that has not stopped him from receiving awards for his accomplishments during high school.

Nugent was recently named the Gatorade Louisiana Boys’ Track and Field Athlete of the Year. The award is given out annually to one boy and one girl from each of the 50 states. Winning this award puts Nugent’s name into the discussion for the national award, in which only one boy and one girl are selected from the entire United States.

“They only give it to one person per year,” said Nugent on being named the winner of the award. “It is a pretty big deal to win it.”

Nugent is a three-time state champion in the 110 meter hurdles. He is also a two-time MVP of the Class 3A State Championship Meet. Those accomplishments, among many others, played a big role in receiving the award.

The Athlete of the Year award is not given just because of the athletes on field performance, though. Other factors that go into determining the award winner are performance in the classroom and involvement around the community. Nugent maintained a B average in the classroom and was involved in multiple community service activities.

Besides receiving awards, Nugent has been busy this summer preparing for the start of his college track career at LSU. He has been working out at his former high school, North Vermilion, all summer to stay in shape.

“I have just been going to work outs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday,” said Nugent. “I’m still keeping busy and keeping a basic body until I am able to go to LSU.”

Nugent is also giving some much needed rest to a groin injury that gave him trouble throughout his entire senior track season.

“The injury is getting a whole lot better,” admitted Nugent. “I have been going to the chiropractor. He has been working with me and helping me out a lot. I’m not really worried about it.”

A healthy Nugent could be just what the LSU track and field team needs. Nugent will join a team at LSU which recently finished tied for second at the NCAA Track and Field Championships. LSU was strong in most areas, except one.

“They were weak in the hurdles, and they only lost by eight points,” said Nugent on the LSU track team in which he will be a part. “They were just one event away. They told me that they could have used me that week. Hopefully I’ll be able to do something when I get there to help.”

Nugent will be leaving for LSU on August 14. Meanwhile the possibility is still there that he will receive one more award for his accomplishments in high school, the Gatorade National Boys’ Athlete of the Year.