The game of shot put is an event that is a part of track and field, which consists of a spherical weight that is placed on your shoulder being thrown into the air and measured for distance. The player must spin six times per competition while staying inside a ring before throwing the weight with one hand.

The ball weighs an amount of 16lb for men and 8.8lb for women. It is typically made of lead and encased in a steel shell, but can also be made of solid iron or brass. With the strength of having to throw the ball, players must train in order to perfect the techniques. 

Ryan Jones ’09, strength and conditioning coach for Archbishop Riordan, said, “The definition of success in this sport is very numeric and tangible. The constant improvement after daily practice shows they are continuing to increase power outputs and refine techniques.” 

Shot put is counted at an individual score, but the advice and learning moments players retain from the team is very important. Having a source of outlet or mentor with a longer experience may be what helps a player succeed and progress into an amazing player.

As a shot put player, Santino Martinez ’24 said, “Being an individual sport had me thinking that it was all on me, but teammates helped alleviate the pressures when I was in the ring and having that constant support helped me a lot.”

Shot put is loved by many and the highlights of throwing the weight at the perfect time and height is the best feeling for players. The sport grants the satisfaction of how hard work truly pays off at the end. It also allows players to connect and bond over a sport they enjoy playing and creates a sense of bonding unlike any other. 

Timothy Spiegel ’24, a shot put player on the Archbishop Riordan team recalls his ultimate achievement and highlight of his shot put experience by saying, “I met a lot of awesome people throughout the year and it was a great way to stay active and participate in the Riordan community. At each meet, the team and I strived for new personal records, and had fun doing it.”

He added,“Overall I say the best individual experience would be against the whole WCAL in trials. I beat my old personal record, and I had my whole team to congratulate me afterwards. The support of my team kept me going to almost qualify, but fell a few inches short of it. However, I’d say this throwing season was very progressive.”

Through the players, it shows the determination of each player to be the greatest and this mindset guarantees endless possibilities for the team. 

Joseph Harbert ’22, a shot put player on the Archbishop Riordan who made it to CCS said, “My ultimate goal as an individual this year would be to win a CCS Title, I’ve been 2nd all year and my goal is to win not just to be there.”