By Matt Browning
Salina South’s Jakub Szyndlar saw significant progress in his javelin throwing toward the end of his junior season.
He hopes that momentum carries into a successful senior campaign.
“I want to build on the groundwork that I set at the end of last season,” Szyndlar said. “Improving not only in my form but also how far I go in the season. I have my sights set on making state for the first time in my career for Javelin. State, however, isn’t the only thing on my mind for this season. I also aim to get first place at a meet. It sounds very simple but when you have strong competition, it drives me to get as much practice in as I can.”
Throwing is something that relaxes Szyndlar, and he wants to bring that mindset with him to practice each day.
“I want to work on my attitude coming into practice,” Szyndlar said. “After a long day at school, I need to come ready to practice and focus on my form. It is a lot more enjoyable when I can let everything go from that day and simply throw.”
Szyndlar is also in a fortunate position, as he has a family connection that helps him continue developing his skills.
“During the offseason, I practice throwing with my aunt and we both took part in the Sunflower State Games,” Szyndlar said. “She taught me how to throw so when I work with her; it is not only a great bonding experience but helps keep my technique fresh for the spring.”
