Olivia Bangs: Girls Shot Put Indoor State Champion

By Adella Wu, Shield Editor 

Olivia Bangs, a senior at NRCA, won the Division I state championship in the girls shot put at the NCRunners Independent Schools Indoor Championships on Feb. 9, throwing a winning distance of 31-1.25. Bangs’ victory represented her hard work and success amidst personal growth and overcoming obstacles.  

Leading up to the championship, her training process varied. Bangs said, “Last season I was outside at least four days a week, lifting at least three days a week, going to training camps, seeing a sports psychologist, and focusing on nutrition.” In her junior year, Bangs won second place in both the outdoor and indoor track and field state championships, as well as first place in the conference in both seasons. 

This season’s state champion title was her first. She demonstrated her abilities and experience in a more sustainable manner. “This year of sports and life has been one of walking by faith, giving myself grace, and [having gratitude] for the people God’s put around me. Though my physical ability is different from last year, I’m so grateful that God has used this time to grow my faith, values, and peace,” Bangs said.  

In addition to conference and state awards, Bangs has also received three team awards at NRCA for best in field events. With God by her side, through gratitude, hard work, and grace, Bangs leaves her mark at NRCA as an outstanding Christian athlete. 

Other notable NRCA performances at the indoor track and field state championship meet included senior Matt Clay, who threw 45-3.5 to take 3rd in the boys shot put, and eighth‑grader Luke Surface, who ran 4:23.02 in the 1,600 to finish 4th.