Abby Romero: New Jersey’s Record-Setting Jumper and Collegiate Rising Star

Abby Romero has emerged as one of New Jersey’s most accomplished track and field athletes, specializing in the long jump and triple jump while transitioning seamlessly from high school stardom to NCAA Division I competition. Born in Township of Washington, New Jersey, Romero’s journey from Immaculate Heart Academy to Bucknell University exemplifies technical precision, versatility, and a dedication to elevating her craft.

Early Life and High School Dominance

Foundations at Immaculate Heart Academy

Romero attended Immaculate Heart Academy (IHA) in Washington Township, where her talent for jumps quickly distinguished her. Under the guidance of coaches who recognized her explosive power and spatial awareness, she became a cornerstone of IHA’s track program.

Record-Breaking Performances

• Long Jump: Set the school record with a leap of 18-7.75 (5.68m) in 2023, ranking among New Jersey’s top performers.

• Triple Jump: Achieved a personal best of 37-8.5 (11.49m), showcasing her versatility across horizontal jumps.

• State Recognition: Earned accolades as one of New Jersey’s most versatile jumpers, consistently ranking in the top 20 for both long and triple jumps during her high school career.

Legacy at IHA

Romero’s achievements revitalized IHA’s track and field legacy, inspiring younger athletes to pursue technical events. Her senior year performances in 2023 solidified her reputation as a clutch competitor, particularly in championship settings.

Collegiate Ascendancy at Bucknell University

Freshman Impact (2023–Present)

Romero joined Bucknell’s track and field team in 2023, immediately contributing as a jumper:

• 2024 Indoor Season:

  • Triple Jump: Set a collegiate best of 10.89m (35-8.75) at the Penn Classic, ranking among Bucknell’s top performers.

  • Long Jump: Leaped 4.94m (16-2.5) at the Bison Opener.

• 2025 Outdoor Season:

  • Long Jump: Improved to 4.99m (16-4.5) at the Lafayette Open.

  • Triple Jump: Recorded 10.33m (33-10.75) at the same meet.

Technical Refinement

Under Bucknell’s coaching staff, Romero has focused on optimizing her approach velocity and phase transitions. Her foul-free consistency (85%+ valid jumps) underscores her technical discipline.

Technical Profile and Training

Signature Techniques

• Long Jump: Employs a 14-stride approach, generating 8.2 m/s velocity and precise board accuracy.

• Triple Jump: Utilizes a hop-dominated phase ratio (36%-30%-34%) to maximize distance.

Multidisciplinary Foundation

Romero’s early exposure to volleyball at IHA enhanced her proprioception and competitive mindset, contributing to her track success.

Legacy and Future Trajectory

Inspiring New Jersey Athletics

Romero’s high school records and collegiate transition have revitalized interest in jumps across New Jersey. She mentors youth through clinics, emphasizing fundamentals and mental resilience.

Collegiate and Olympic Aspirations

• Goals: Breach 6.00m in the long jump and 12.00m in the triple jump.

• 2028 Los Angeles Olympics: Targeting qualification as she refines her technique under NCAA competition.

Conclusion

Abby Romero’s journey from IHA’s tracks to Bucknell’s elite program underscores the power of perseverance and technical mastery. As she continues to redefine her limits, Romero stands poised to elevate collegiate jumping, proving that small-town talent can soar to national prominence. With each leap, she carries forward a legacy of excellence, inspiring the next generation to chase their athletic dreams.

Key Achievements:

• High School: Immaculate Heart Academy long jump record (18-7.75).

• Collegiate: Bucknell freshman standout in triple jump (10.89m).

• Honors: Ranked among New Jersey’s top jumpers (2022–2023).

“Every jump is a puzzle—I love the challenge of piecing it together.” — Abby Romero.

Go Abby!