Crosby Haughn landed a spot at the New Balance Nationals Outdoors freshmen after qualifying at the Green Hat Relays in Orrville, Ohio, on May 2 for discus. He is the only WHS student to qualify for the New Balance Nationals Outdoors.
Haughn secured his spot after throwing 124 feet and five inches, surpassing the 123 foot mark required for qualification. WHS’s throwing coach, Sean Neely, has worked with him throughout the season to perfect his technique and prepare him for competitions.
During the Green Hat Relays, Haughn focused on staying calm and executing his practice routine. After his throw, his anticipation built as he waited for the measurement to be announced. When the number came out, Haughn celebrated his achievement with teammates and Neely.
“I was so excited [when the measurement came out], and I ran to my coach, gave him a high five, and thanked him because I would not have done it without his coaching,” Haughn said. “Then, I ran to my mom and hugged her.”
Haughn could feel the stress relieved off his shoulders, and he could finally rest knowing he had made the qualification.
“I was very excited for him. We knew he had it in him, it was just about actually performing to his standard,” Neely said. “When we heard them call the number, we all celebrated for him, knowing that it would qualify him.”
Despite facing a minor slump earlier in the season, Haughn rose up and qualified for the NBNO for freshmen.
“Nothing major should be changed [to Haughn’s form] before nationals. We might change some small stuff, but no major changes until after his season is over,” Neely said.
Haughn has many goals for the future, such as throwing 130 feet at NBNO, qualifying for nationals again, and breaking the school discus record. Neely believes his strong foundation will carry him far.
“He has a very good foundation for discus as a young freshman,” Neely said. “If he continues to put in the work and stay in the weight room, then he will have a chance to be a very competitive thrower with anyone in the state.”
The New Balance Nationals Outdoors will occur from June 19-22, 2025, at Franklin Field, Philadelphia. Haughn is set to compete on Friday, June 20, at 1 p.m., with field events scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
