The COVID-19 outbreak forced the sudden cancelation of the winter and spring sports seasons. Over the coming weeks, the Elmhurst College athletic department will be highlighting senior student-athletes from the spring who had their seasons cut short and were unable to have a senior day ceremony.
Senior Spotlight: Ian Perkins (Track & Field)
Track & Field/Cross Country Highlights: Perkins is a four-year member of the men's track and field team, participating in the throws. He set personal records of 13.63 meters in the shot put, 33.48 in the discus throw, 38.09 meters for the hammer throw and 14.90 meters in the weight throw. He set a school record in the weight throw.
What are your plans after graduation? To find a job in game design.
What is your favorite memory at Elmhurst? Participating in track meets were always my favorite.
Do you have any advice for your younger teammates or future Bluejay recruits? "Don't beat yourself up after a poor performance early in your career or season, go into meets with a positive attitude your body knows what to do from all the practice you've done so trust yourself."
Head Coach Jordan Bartolazzi on Perkins: "I really wish I got to coach Ian for more than just this one indoor season. He has been an outstanding example of consistency and hard work over his career at Elmhurst. As a freshman, he never threw over 11 meters in the indoor weight throw, and he finished his career as the school record holder with a throw of 14.90 meters (a 13-foot improvement!) He accomplished all that he did because he showed up every day and worked hard. As we build our throws program at Elmhurst, we hope Ian serves as a blueprint for what kind of development can happen."
