Nathan Melton '21 Recruiting Profile

I have a great deal of passion for the sport of track and field.  Throwing was definitely my first love.  From the moment of the first toss of a 6 lb shot put out of my 5^th grade hand, I was hooked. In middle school, I was fortunate to have a track and field coach who was a thrower.  Coach Pierce poured a lot of  instruction and encouragement into me.  About midway through my 7^th grade year, I found that I have a passion for sprinting as well.  Throughout middle school, I found much success with competition in the areas of discus, shot put, 200m, and the 100m.  My freshman year, I would add the 400m to my array of events.  By my sophomore year of high school, I was no longer satisfied with using a gliding technique for shot put as I could see my gains topping out. I spent Spring Break of my sophomore year self instructing in the spin technique, based mostly on watching YouTube videos of professional throwers, and reps, lots and lots of reps. Being a thrower and a sprinter, an unlikely combination, I found that my build was best suited for the multi.  Through the coaching staff of the local summer parks and rec track league, I was pointed to a wonderful multi coach by the name of Chase Hood who had competed for Baylor University.  He continues to instruct me in the more technical aspects of jumps, hurdles, sprint technique, and starts.  With Chase’s help, I was able to complete my first Decathlon at Texas Greatest Athlete at the end of my sophomore year.  Not neglecting my love for throwing, this past fall, I had the opportunity to travel to Mission, TX, down in the Valley, to train under an incredible throwing coach by the name of Coach Larry Howell.  He has taught me so much, not only about technique, but also what it takes to be a great competitor and keep my head in the game.  I work hard, but I credit God for my athleticism and for the many opportunities He has afforded me.  I would not be where I am today without great coaches and especially my Mom who has been there to support me every step of the way.  I continue to look forward to improving myself and reaching my potential through college track and field competition.