Ell-Saline High School senior Delaney Fouard adjusted her track and field role this season after a hip injury from cross country limited her ability to run distance events, leading her into a new event and a new mindset in the throwing circle.
Fouard, who previously stayed involved as a track manager, decided this spring to try shot put for the first time. The shift wasn’t about replacing what she lost, but about staying connected to her team in a different way. “My main focus was being on the team, learning something new, and having fun,” Fouard said.
With no prior throwing experience, Fouard spent the winter learning basic mechanics before gradually progressing to using a regulation shot in the spring. The learning curve was steep, but she embraced the process while focusing on steady improvement and team support.
One of her biggest contributions, she said, came off the field. “I am a good cheerleader and like cheering on my teammates. I try to bring a positive attitude to everything I do,” Fouard said.
Rather than setting strict performance goals, Fouard defined success by growth and participation.
“Winning and placing is always fun, but for me this season was successful by just getting to be a part of it. Growing and learning while getting PR’s is fun and makes you feel successful. The whole idea is to get better,” she said.
