A legend from the track and field world and Sweetwater High alumni visited the school during an all campus assembly, hoping to inspire students to chase their dreams and continue an education beyond high school.

Gail Devers, a five-time Olympian and three-time gold medalist in the 100 meters, was in the region as part of her worldwide tour, promoting her new book entitled: Gail Devers My Life In Story: Stronger. Devers headed home to National City’s Sweetwater High School, home of the Red Devils, where she began her legendary career.

Cheerleaders and various other athletes from Sweetwater High welcomed the athlete on the dedicated Gail Devers Football Field, listening to Devers tell her story about overcoming challenges and preparing for success, sign books for students and faculty, and visit with the local Barnes & Noble and Sweetwater High Alumni.

During her presentation, she emphasized education. She asked, by show of hands, how many of the students had goals written down, something they could see every day. Hundreds of hands shot up.

She also told the athletes to never allow anyone to say they are too small, weak or unable for this or not good enough to do that.

“There are people who are going to overlook you because of where you come from. As long as you have the confidence and have it up here and here, you’re fine,” she said, pointing to her head and heart.

During the assembly National City Mayor Ron Morrison presented Devers with a Mayoral Proclamation and Devers first coach, Coach Gene Alim gave remarks about working with Devers early on in her career.

Devers discussed despite being diagnosed with Graves disease in 1990, after months of treatment she returned to the sport and won gold medals in the 1992 and 1996 Olympic games.

“Right here is where I learned to dream beyond this field,” said Devers. “To dream beyond what I could see. No matter the obstacles you face, never allow them to define you.”

After her talk, Devers took photos and signed books with students and faculty.

“There’s something special about SUHI. It’s really important to remember where you came from and especially in this day, to have positive role models,” Devers said.