Sloan Gardner '26 Recruiting Profile

I competed in my first full season of indoor track and field in 8th grade, where I tried throwing shot put and was instantly hooked.

Arriving in high school as the only female thrower on my team was intimidating at first, but I have since built strong bonds with my teammates and formed new friendships. Being the only female thrower also inspired me to connect with other female throwers in Southern Maine. The support I have found in this community of women, as well as in the broader throwing community, is truly remarkable and something I hope to find in a college environment as well.

I consider myself, and am often referred to by my coaches, as an athlete who is dedicated, focused, coachable, hardworking, a leader, a steady and calming presence at practice, and an easy laugh.

This past spring (2024), I suffered an ankle injury that forced me to step away from rotational training and spend most of the season competing with power throws. Toward the end of the season, I returned to the glide throw, which I hadn’t practiced all year, and achieved a PR of 34’8”. After this accomplishment, I went on to become the Western Maine Conference champion and meet the qualification for the New England meet.

In June (2024), to improve my technique and expand my knowledge, I attended the Elite Throws camp with Coach Matt Ellis and several college coaches. I’m excited to apply what I learned from them in the upcoming indoor and outdoor seasons.

As I prepare for college, I am ready to dedicate my time and effort to both my academic and athletic careers, and I hope to find a school that supports me and fosters a strong community in both areas.