Hallandale's Hammond aiming high -- literally

Hallandale senior Frankie Hammond Jr. will be on the receiving end of Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow's passes this fall.

The 6-1 Hammond should add even more excitement to the Gators' passing game and kickoff returns with his speed (4.5 in the 40) and jumping ability (41-inch vertical) after a breakout senior year in which he established career highs in receptions (47), yards (900) and touchdowns (13 -- 11 receiving and two running).

On Friday, Hammond hopes those physical attributes lead him to the high jump title at the Class 3A state finals in Winter Park. On Monday, Hammond, who helped lead the Chargers to the 2006 state title and has been a state runner-up the past two seasons, discussed his last shot at the state high jump title and what it takes to be a model student-athlete.

Q. You jumped a career-best 6-10.25 on March 8, which ranks No. 6 overall in Florida and fourth in Class 3A. The favorite on Friday is Booker senior Marquise Mack, the state leader at 7-2. Do you prefer a role as underdog, and what height do you believe will win states this year?

A. I would rather have it that way. When you are at the top there is more pressure. This way I can just go out and do my thing. I am not going to stress myself. I am not going to underestimate anybody. In my opinion, a 7-2 is the minimum to win states. That is my approach going in.

High-jumpers share their gravity-defying feats with great dunkers. Who do you rate as the best in the NBA?

A. Vince Carter. He just dunks with reckless abandon. If he is by the rim, he just takes off. I try to base my jumping ability off him. When I get [to age] 21-22, I want to get up there like him.

Q. I heard you crossed paths with Tebow at the Gators' Orange and Blue spring game two weeks ago. What did you discuss with your future quarterback?

A. I just let him know that he will be throwing the ball to me real soon. I am real excited to get up there. UF liked the fact that I can jump real high and bring the ball down in traffic. When it comes to red-zone territory, they can put it up and not worry about getting it too high.

Q. Why are you a better jumper this season?

A. I've gotten much stronger and faster. UF sent me a workout plan. I put on a couple of pounds and got faster. My 40 was like a 4.5-4.8. After working out I am at a 4.4 consistently.

Q. Sprinters are known to strut around in the blocks and play the mind game with opponents. Have you ever experienced that manner of gamesmanship in the high jump?

A. It depends. Some high-jumpers have tried to come at me, get me nerve-racked. But most of them are quiet and friendly. It is a good environment to be in.

Q. You have been able to juggle athletics and still maintain a 3.90 GPA, which includes honors classes in English, American Government and Marine Science. Talk about the parental guidance you have received and what advice would you give to kids who might not have a strong support system at home?

A. Both of my parents support me. Every day they ask me if my homework is done. I thank them for that. For those people who don't have those parents behind them I would tell them to keep trying. At the end of the road it will pay off. Half the battle is having that education.

Q. How have you been able to avoid the pitfalls of peer pressure?

A. One thing, I have always been good at seeing stuff before it happens. Not going to a party, then hearing the next morning there was some trouble. It's something I have a feeling for. When people try to influence me, it goes in one ear and out the other. Now I'm starting to see what my parents are starting to instill in me to stay focused.