Avery Campbell Signs NLI with Missouri Valley College

Congratulations to Avery Campbell, PCHS Senior, on Signing His NLI to Run Track at Missouri Valley College!
Putnam County High School is thrilled to announce that senior Avery Campbell has officially committed to continuing his track and field career at Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Missouri. A standout both on and off the track, Avery’s dedication, talent, and perseverance have earned him a well-deserved place in the Mo Valley Vikings program.
A Legacy of Excellence
Avery Campbell’s track career at Putnam County High School reflects a legacy built on hard work and determination. Over the years, he has garnered an impressive list of accolades, including:

• 2nd Team All-Conference in the 800m (2022)
• 1st Team All-Conference in the 800m and 4x800m Relay (2023)
• 2nd Team All-Conference in the 4x400m Relay (2023)
• 1st Team All-Conference in the 800m, 1600m, and 4x800m Relay (2024)
• 2nd Team All-District in the 4x400m and 4x800m Relay (2023)
• 2nd Team All-District in the 800m and 4x800m Relay (2024)

These accomplishments highlight Avery’s athletic prowess and his unwavering commitment to excellence, making him a role model for current and future athletes at Putnam County.
Avery’s Journey
Avery’s passion for running started early in life. His grandparents fondly recall how he was always on the move, running everywhere he could. That childhood energy eventually blossomed into a love for track and field. "Running just stuck with me," Avery shared. "When I see all of the success my mom had in high school and at the college level, it just inspires me to want to succeed like she did."
Throughout his high school career, Avery has grown tremendously as both an athlete and a student. He credits his coaches—Coach Mayer, Coach Quint, and Coach Watt—for pushing him to excel in all areas of life. "Putnam County has shaped who I am today by holding me to high standards, both on the track and in the classroom," he said.
Varsity Track Head Coach Brian Mayer praised Avery’s growth and potential, saying, “Missouri Valley is getting a tremendous young man for their Track & Field program. Over the last few years, I have watched an extremely talented Avery grow into a great young adult and dependable competitor within our Track program. I am excited for him and I can't wait to see him reach his potential as a Viking!"
Varsity Track Assistant Coach Jeremy Watt added, "Avery has not only grown into an exceptional athlete but also an outstanding individual. His knowledge of the sport and focus on perfecting the 800m have been instrumental in his success, and I have no doubt he will bring the same dedication and excellence to his collegiate career."
Words of Wisdom
Avery also offered some advice for younger athletes at Putnam County who dream of competing at the collegiate level. "Work hard when you’re younger because you won’t get those years back," he advised. "Most people, when they look back, wish they had worked a little harder or done things differently."
Looking Ahead
As Avery prepares to join the Missouri Valley College track team, he has set ambitious goals for himself. He aims to become one of the top runners in the conference and hopes to qualify for nationals at the NAIA level. Beyond athletics, Avery is excited about the opportunity to meet new people, experience life outside of Putnam County, and grow both personally and academically.
A Celebration of Community
Putnam County R-I School District couldn’t be prouder of Avery Campbell’s accomplishments. His journey is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, perseverance, and the support of a close-knit community. Join us in celebrating Avery’s incredible achievement and wishing him continued success as he takes on this exciting new chapter. We are #PutnamProud of you, Avery, and can’t wait to see all you accomplish as a Mo Valley Viking!