Samuel Gomez '16 Recruiting Profile

Nearly everyone in my family is or was a teacher.  I was raised to understand that there is nothing more important than my education, and I have devoted my scholastic career to working hard, going the extra mile, pushing myself and achieving great things.  As a result, I am top in my class and maintain a 4.0.  I am enrolled in all honors and A.P. courses, and have been successful with my A.P. exams.  I am particularly interested in math and science and would like pursue a higher education that includes both subjects.  I am especially interested in biology and, after undergraduate studies, am interested in medical school. 

I have been involved in sports for as long as I can remember, and am fortunate to have the influence of my grandfather, a former competitive lifter and thrower, in my life.  I have trained with my grandfather on weights for four years and have met and exceeded goals I've set for myself. My current personal best in the bench press is 320 lbs., while I squat 460 lbs. and lift 220 lbs. in the military press.  I began throwing the shot and discus my freshman year; as a freshman, I threw for my team at the regional finals and received a letter.  My sophomore year I was fortunate to qualify for state and subsequently place fourth in my division in the state of Nevada. My junior year I was state champion in my division, and while this was a tremendous accomplishment, I know that I have much more distance to throw within me.  I train all year and spend my afternoons and weekends at the field.  I have received amazing support and mentoring from my grandfather, as well as other coaches who have been instrumental in the development of my skill.

Although throwing is an individual sport, I feel very much a camaraderie with my teammates. I believe I am a good candidate for a team because I am supportive of my teammates and offer encouragement, during good times, as well as difficult times.  I am also very persistent and perseverant and I don't believe in giving up. I approach athletics much like I do academics, with a belief that with hard work and determination, tiring practice and sacrifice, I will succeed in reaching beyond my personal best.