‘I still want more:’ A Joplin High School thrower’s rise to stardom
· Yahoo Sports
JOPLIN, MO — Joplin High School senior thrower Neil Barstow has been chasing program history ever since stepping onto the scene as a freshman.
“It was definitely relieving after trying to [set the record] for over two years,” Barstow explains. “The record is great, but I still want more.”
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"I still want more…"@JOMOTrack_Field senior thrower Neil Barstow explains he still wants more after breaking his school's discus throw record with a mark of 50.56 meters (165 ft, 10 in).@KODESports@JHS_Athletics
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The record Barstow is referring to is Joplin High School’s discus throw. The track and field standout recently set a new program record with a mark of 50.56 meters (165 feet, ten inches).
“None of this would be possible without my support staff and the coaches I work with everyday,” Barstow adds.
Joplin’s throwing coach Dylan Wemer mentions that he’s seen the potential in Barstow ever since his first year at the high school level.
“He’s an even better person than he is an athlete…and he’s an amazing athlete,” Coach Wemer says. “It’s been awesome to see him grow mainly because every single time he throws, there’s something he improves on. He knows exactly what needs to be fixed every time he throws. He has a purpose and intent with everything he does.”
Barstow’s approach to his craft has helped him continue his track and field career at the next level. Despite being a standout on the football field as well, Barstow recently signed his National Letter of Intent with the University of Central Missouri for track and field.
“Eventually, I want to be an All-American at the college level,” Barstow adds. “I’m always about learning and the coaching behind it. I think Central Missouri has a great mix of that.”
With his senior track and field season still underway, Barstow continues to set the bar high.
“He’s placed at state two times for both the discus and shot put and he wants to make it three times this year,” Coach Wemer mentions. “I’m excited to see him do that this year.
Joplin will participate next in the Class 5 District 6 Tournament starting Saturday, May 16.
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