Athlete to Watch: Windom's Delaney Smith


What are your expectations for this upcoming outdoor track and field season?

My expectations for myself are quite high, I have put in a lot of time to make improvements and I am excited to see that time pay off.

What have you been up to since we last saw you competing in track and field?

Last spring I competed in numerous virtual meets that were put on via Instagram. This was a fun way to keep somewhat of a competitive edge and look forward to something other than just practicing. I have also been fortunate to have been able to throw shot put at home on my driveway so that was another different atmosphere to throw in.

What are you most looking forward to this season?

I am looking forward to just having a season in general, I know that it may look different because of the circumstances but I am excited to get back to practicing and competing regularly with my team.

You are the top returning thrower for the shot put and discus in the state this season, how does that affect your expectations for yourself?

I set my personal expectations pretty high no matter what and this does not really make a difference to what I want to see myself achieve. I will just continue to try and surpass my personal records as much as I can by putting in a lot of time practicing and in the weight room. 

How have you been training for jumps during this long track and field layoff?

I have been lifting and keeping busy whether it is track or my other sports. Last spring and summer, I spent a lot of my time training and breaking down my technique because it was a great opportunity to make changes that would not affect distances in a meet. 

You are committed to the University of South Dakota, how did you choose to go there and compete?

The University of South Dakota just seemed like the perfect fit. I am very impressed with the team and facilities along with the coaching staff. Even despite never being on campus for an official visit, I was able to have a virtual tour and get a sense of the campus that way. It is also close enough to home that I can go home when I need to but it is also far enough away that I won't be home too much.