The throwing events are going to be very strong this year, particularly the Discus
Shot Put-
2015 State Champion: Aaliah Herron (E. St. Louis Sr.) 43-1
Outlook: Two season ago Courtney Morgan won the state title as a freshman. In 2015, She slipped to fourth. Now as a junior- and wiser- it is time for redemption. A lean returning field should help her ascend to the top again. There are only six girls who tossed the ball 40-feet or better. Michaela Smith is close by as possibly the biggest threat.
Top returners in 2016-
| RANK | MARK | ATHLETE/TEAM | GRADE | MEET DATEPLACE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 42-7 | 2017 | ||
| 2 | 41-5.5 | 2016 | ||
| 3 | 40-9.75 | 2016 | ||
| 4 | 40-5 | 2017 | ||
| 5 | 40-0 | 2018 | ||
| 6 | 39-8 | 2018 | ||
| 7 | 39-6 | 2016 | ||
| 8 | 39-5 | 2017 |
Discus Throw-
2015 State Champion: Holly Julifs (Aurora Metea Valley) 142-7
Outlook: 10 returners back from last year's state championship including the runner up Michaela Smith who happened to be rated #2 last year. Lake Park of course has a rich history of throwers on the boys side. Now we could see things transfer to the girls. Jada Jackson is a top performer who missed out on all-state action by fouling out in the prelims. This season will be different. The Discus will be a very strong event in Illinois.
Top returners in 2016-
| RANK | MARK | ATHLETE/TEAM | GRADE | MEET DATEPLACE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 145-7 | 2016 | ||
| 2 | 140-3 | 2016 | ||
| 3 | 137-8 | 2017 | ||
| 4 | 135-7 | 2016 | ||
| 5 | 135-0 | 2018 | ||
| 6 | 134-7 | 2017 | ||
| 7 | 129-7.5 | 2017 | ||
| 8 | 129-2 | 2016 | ||
| 9 | 123-5 | 2016 | ||
| 10 | 122-7 | 2016 |