Joel Kiene

My name is Joel Kiene, and I am a 2027 6-foot-3, 240-pound thrower for North Medford High School in Oregon. I currently hold a 3.2 GPA and am enrolled in two AP classes. Competing as an underclassmen these past two years, I’ve learned a tremendous amount about the sport of track & field and adapted to its highs and lows. As a freshman I was selected District 2 Field Athlete of the Meet before earning 5th place in discus at the OSAA State Championship, as well as Honorable Mention All-State (3A). After transferring to North Medford High School, a 6A school, this put me in a position to compete at the highest level. Here I not only grew in size and strength, but my mindset toward the sport matured, which helped me evolve as an athlete. My current top marks are 48-1 in the shot put, 161-4 with the discus and 166-5 with the javelin. In college I plan on majoring in business.   What makes me unique is how I got into the sport of track & field. Growing up I always watched my sister compete in the field events. She did all three throwing events and was passionate about it, so naturally I was curious. I always hung around my sister’s competitions, not exactly sure what was going on. Despite not knowing the rules, I observed the community and the friends my sister was making with her teammates and competitors. This is why in 7th grade, I started track and field. Now it seems I have flipped positions, as I have a younger brother who comes to my meets and is looking up to me to set an example. With this, I know I have a standard to uphold. This is a key thing that motivates me. My hard work continues outside of practice, as I go to my local high school multiple times a week to get the reps that I need. I lift with my teammates 4 days a week, focusing on building strength and doing throwing-related exercises. Additionally, I visit camps out of state such as IronWood Throws Camp in Idaho, and I continue to visit the throws center periodically to build on my technique.   Hard work does not stop for me with sports. I am committed to being the best student I can be and getting the most out of learning possible. Along with my current AP classes, I will continue AP studies throughout my high school tenure. I believe that in taking these classes I am challenged in a way that prepares me for the workload ahead in college. Along with hard work, I also focus on time with friends and family. One of my favorite ways to spend time with my friends is attending my church youth group. Through this group I’ve had many opportunities to not only grow closer in my faith, but also have meaningful experiences with positive people, and do community service work.   Thank you for your time and consideration while viewing my profile.