Bixby’s London Poindexter

Before she settles into the starting blocks or steps onto the high jump apron, Bixby High School junior London Poindexter slows everything down with a quiet routine. “The most important part of my pre-event routine is prayer and positive self-talk,” Poindexter said. “My faith keeps me grounded and reminds me to compete with purpose and gratitude.”

Poindexter, a varsity standout for the Lady Spartans, competes in the 100-meter hurdles, high jump, long jump and the 4×400-meter relay, giving Bixby points in nearly every corner of a meet. She said the demands of four events can be tough, especially in a sport where the margin for error is measured in fractions of a second and inches. “The toughest part about track is maintaining peak performance, knowing there’s always new competition rising and unlocking their potential in the same events,” she said.

For Poindexter, motivation starts with her faith and her family. “Jesus and my parents inspire me the most,” she said. “My parents inspire me because of everything they’ve sacrificed and the way they show up for me every day. They’ve taught me how to work hard, stay disciplined and never give up.”

She brings that mindset to a Bixby program she says feels like family. “I love that my teammates always hold each other to high standards and are always so encouraging,” Poindexter said.

Representing the Lady Spartans, she added, is about more than personal bests. “What makes representing Bixby special to me is the investment my coaches have made in me,” she said. “They’ve poured so much time, energy and belief into my development, which motivates me to compete at a high level for something bigger than myself.”

This season, Poindexter has taken on a new role, helping coach the middle school team in hurdles and field events. “It’s been really special to give back and mentor younger athletes the same way my coaches have poured into me,” she said.

Her biggest strength, she said, is between the ears. “I stay composed under pressure, compete with confidence and push through challenges no matter the situation,” Poindexter said. “I am also constantly working to improve my personal records across all four of my events.”

After high school, she plans to continue that work at the next level, competing in college track and field while earning her degree and contributing to another strong team culture.