June 11, 2009
Stats
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. -
Illinois State track and field senior Samantha Springer competed in the discus throw at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships Thursday, in Fayetteville, Ark. Springer completed the event with a throw of 161-05 and finished 16th of 28 competitors.
Head coach Elvis Forde feels Springer competed well in the last competition of her college career.
"The day started off well with difficult competition and good competing weather," said Forde. "Sam did a good job today. She was trying to get a feel for her throws, but it didn't happen as well as she would have liked. However, Sam has improved her throwing marks every year of her career."
The Tremont, Ill., native recorded her longest throw on the first of three attempts. Springer's second throw was 154-4.5, and she fouled on her last attempt.
"It was a tremendous accomplishment for the last event of her collegiate career," said Forde.
Thursday's field was led by Jere' Summers from Louisville, who threw a 183-02. Billie-Jo Grant from Virginia recorded a 175-10, while D'Andra Carter from Texas Tech rounded out the top-three with a 174-05.
The top-12 qualifiers from today's round will advance to Saturday's final round.
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