Growing up with siblings can give athletes an edge over their competition. For Franklin Regional’s Sierra Todero, that sibling rivalry has helped develop her into the track and field athlete she is today.

The Panthers’ senior jumper recently made her commitment to join her older sister, Rayna, at Robert Morris University on the track and field team.

“It feels really great; it’s like a big relief,” said the soon-to-be Colonial of her decision. “I’ve always known I didn’t want to go that far and I wanted to come home. Not to mention my sister is on the team, too, so that was a big thing.”

Rayna Todero left her mark on the track during her time at Franklin Regional, as she captured a gold medal in the triple jump during the WPIAL Track and Field Championship in May 2021.

But Rayna’s impact off the track has been what Sierra has appreciated the most of her older sister. Whether it’s been advice on the recruiting process or helping with how to talk to college coaches, Rayna has been the guidance that Sierra has needed during the last few months.

“We’re really excited; she definitely pushes me the most,” she commented about reuniting as teammates. “She’s the best teammate, so I’m very excited and I know she’s excited to have me back on her team, as well.”

Track and field hasn’t been the only sport Sierra Todero has excelled at during her athletic career. In addition to her duties in the spring time as an athlete, she has also been a part of the Panthers’ girls soccer program.

As she progressed through high school, she realized she needed to make a decision as to which sport she wanted to pursue past the high school level. She weighed her options and realized that the stability in track and field suited her better than the uncertainty that is involved with soccer.

“I kind of always knew I didn’t want to play both sports in college,” Todero added. “I didn’t want to be too stressed out with college, especially since it’s a whole new experience and life that I’ll be living.”

That new experience is right around the corner for her, but for now, she has to focus on the impending spring season that will be her final year competing for the Panthers. Todero’s plan is to work on her long jump more this year than she did last year, and she wants to push towards a PR in the event. However, she is aware she needs to still focus on her triple jump and work towards setting a PR in that event, as well.

Once her spring season wraps up this year, Todero will venture off to her new school and new team, but will be greeted by one familiar face. As the excitement builds for her and her older sister’s soon-to-be reunion as teammates, she’s also eager to experience life at a different school and meet new groups of people.

“The change in schedule and schooling I’m excited for,” she noted. “Try living on my own also - I’m excited to see how that goes. I’ve been around Franklin Regional my whole life, so I’ve stuck around the same people. Now, I’ll be able to experience new people and make new friends.”