In a sport that demands patience and power, senior Mark Poulin has built a reputation as one of the hardest workers on the team. From warmups to the shot put circle, Poulin has an undeniable presence and focus that helps the team work harder. 

“I always try to support my teammates especially when they are underperforming at track meets,” said Poulin. “Sometimes there are newer throwers who are nervous before a meet and I just help them understand the process of a meet and help them see there is nothing to be nervous about.”

When he is dialing in his own spin technique, Poulin is always making sure he is getting better even when no one is watching. 

“I have learned a lot from track, especially about how far hard work can get you,” said Poulin.  “We only have one throwing coach so a lot of my growth comes from watching videos on technique and practicing in my own time.”

Poulin’s success in the sport has grown exponentially since his freshman year. From starting as a runner to becoming a successful thrower, there is much to be proud of. 

“My proudest moment as a track athlete was probably placing third in NVLs last season,” stated Poulin. “I started to throw discus at the start of last year and I was able to get good enough to not only get a medal but to also help score points for my team at NVLs.”

Poulin always wants the best for his teammates. Seeing them succeed is a very important part to being their captain.
“This season as captain, I want to see all of my other boy throwers scoring points at meets and hitting their qualifying marks,” said Poulin.  “I know that there are many throwers on the team that are close to getting their qualifying marks and I hope to help guide them to get there.”

As the postseason approaches, Poulin has his sights set on climbing even higher up the championship podium. But whether he is chasing a new personal record in the shot put circle or launching a discus into the far grid, his ultimate impact will be the self-reliant, hard-working culture he leaves behind.