As Junior Jordan Futch stands on the throwing circle, adrenaline flowing through his veins, he throws the shot put, channeling all the years of practice and determination he’s garnered throughout his 3 years on the team.

“I’ve been on the track team since freshman year,” says Futch, freshman year being his first year of throwing. Though Futch wasn’t on varsity last year and believes that he wasn’t the best thrower, this year he has confidence in his abilities, especially after falling short last year and placing runner-up at the state finals. Futch and his team are more determined than ever to score first place in this year’s state championship.

“As a team, I feel good about the upcoming season.” Says Futch, “Personally, I am excited to see what I can do this season for myself and the team. Last year I was not on varsity and wasn’t among the best throwers. However this year I have quickly become one of the best throwers on the team, and I am excited to see what I can do this year.”

Aside from winning first place in the State Finals this year, Futch has a few personal goals of his own this season. “My biggest goal this season is to get to 50ft in shot put and 140ft in the discus. This year I’m just going to continue to work hard not only in practice but as well in the weight room and other types of training as that contributes to success in for throwing.” With determination and hard work, Futch is more motivated than ever to achieve these goals by working hard in the weight room and working hard at practice every day, along with being explosive and strong.

All in all, whether Futch and his team meet their goals or not, the bonds and life lessons learned while on the team are undeniable. “The track team has helped me grow tremendously.” Says Futch, describing how being on the team has helped him grow as a person, “When throwing you must be mentally tough. It’s easy to throw bad or have a bad practice and get down on yourself. However, I must keep working because I know the success I can have, so I must keep working to that.”