When was your first big breakthrough moment in the sport-when you realized you had the potential to do something special in the circle?
Originally track and field was my side hustle, and my option after I quit volleyball. Starting shot put my indoor year, I wasn't a phenom or insane, I hit 36 feet by the end of my freshman year, and started to rotate the following winter season. I believe the breakthrough came from my sophomore spring season, when I picked up a disc for the first time and ended up throwing 152. Knowing it was my first real year and being able to hit a number like that showed me I made the right decision and could do great things in this sport.
At the Deptford Relays last Saturday, you opened your season with a 170-8 in the discus and 44-1.5 in the shot put-how did you feel in the circle during those throws, and what did you take away from your performance?
At Deptford Relays, I felt great considering it was my opener, and to be throwing a mark early in the season that I reached at the end of last spring gives me confidence that things are moving in the right direction. Shot put distance wasn't great, but the technique felt good, and after that meet I threw 47 at a dual, so I know what I'm capable of. I'm not chasing numbers-I'm letting my technique improve and speak for itself this season.
When is your next meet, and what are you looking to improve or accomplish there?
My next meet is the Woodbury Relays this weekend. I'm excited and aiming to break the discus meet record I set there last year. I plan on being patient in the circle and not thinking about distances.
Let's get into your big goals for your final season. You threw a huge personal best of 178-9 to win the New Balance Nationals title last season and hit 48-0 in the shot put indoors. What are your big targets this season, and what are you hoping to hit in both throws?
I've had my heart set on the state record for a while now. I was only a couple feet away at nationals and I'm already throwing 170 early this season. I'm confident I can break it-I even hit a high 180 in warmups at Deptford. It's all in God's timing.
You're very close to the New Jersey state record of 182-0 set by Alyssa Wilson in 2017. How motivated are you to break that mark? What would it mean to you, and how confident are you that you can do it?
To be the New Jersey state record holder would be an incredible accomplishment and proof that even if you start something later, with dedication, you can reach a high level. I truly believe I can break it.
What do you feel you need to do, technically, physically, or mentally, to break that state record?
Technically, I need to stay patient and smooth and let my legs do the work instead of relying on my upper body. Physically, it's about continuing to push in the weight room and being intentional at practice. Mentally, I can't chase the record-if I focus on improving, it will come.
Are there any other records or milestones you're aiming for?
Setting a meet record at nationals would be great, but overall, I just want to have fun and throw the big marks I know I'm capable of.
Can you explain your amazing progression in the discus-from 113 as a freshman to 152 as a sophomore and then 178 to finish your junior season? What changes have helped you make such big jumps each year?
My freshman year was tough because I was injured and couldn't practice consistently. Sophomore year I learned that consistency is everything, and having a full season of training led to 152. Junior year I built on muscle memory and experience, and being intentional in practice helped me keep improving.
What do you consider your biggest strengths as a thrower, and what enables you to be consistently great in the circle?
My diverse athletic background helps a lot. Strength is important, but being smooth
, flexible, and athletic in the circle is just as important, especially in discus.
How do you handle pressure at big meets like the Meet of Champions and New Balance Nationals, and do you have any pre-competition routines or rituals?
I actually perform better at big meets. The competition pushes me to another level. Once I step in the circle, it's just me. I have an active warmup and spend time in prayer, which helps me stay calm and focused.
What's a typical training week like for you during the season?
Early in the season I focus on heavy lifting and drilling. Later on, the weights get lighter and more explosive, and I focus more on full throws and technique.
Looking ahead, what made Penn State the right fit for you?
Penn State felt like home right away. I connected with the coaching staff, loved the team environment, the facilities, and the academic opportunities. It just checked every box for me.
What are you most excited about competing at the college level?
I'm excited for the competition and being around elite athletes. That environment will push me to keep improving and reach new levels.
What's been the toughest challenge in your career so far, and how have you handled it?
My sophomore year I felt very stagnant in the shot put, which was frustrating. I had to reset mentally and realize growth isn't always linear.
What motivates you on days when training is tough?
My faith in God is my biggest motivator. I want to be the best version of myself in every area of life, and tough days are part of that growth.
How has being part of Delsea's throwing program shaped you as an athlete and as a person?
I'm incredibly grateful for my coaches and the program. They've built my foundation in the sport and helped me grow not just as an athlete, but as a person.
Who has had the biggest influence on your development as a thrower?
My faith, my coaches, and my parents. They've all shaped my mindset, work ethic, and belief in myself.
Do you have a favorite hype song before competing?
I used to listen to hype music, but now I listen to worship music before competing. It helps me stay grounded and focused.
If you weren't a thrower, what event would you be doing?
Probably pole vault or long jump, something where I can feel like I'm flying.
What's something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I've been playing piano since I was two and can play by ear. I also write poetry and plan to study biomedical engineering to help create prosthetics for people in need.
