ALLENDALE, Mich. - On Saturday, senior Sarah Fajer made history at Concordia University Irvine as she became the first thrower during the school's NCAA DII era to qualify for nationals. After an outstanding season as one of the best throwers in the entire western region, Fajer finally reached the moment she had been working for all year tirelessly.

After collecting the 15th spot on the national qualifying list, Fajer was set to compete on the final day of the national meet against the other top women shot put athletes across DII. 

The senior thrower recorded three marks in the competition, her top mark on the day being 13.67m. However, her final throw was 13.65m, as she concludes her season as the 16th best women's shot put thrower in DII. 

Fajer said this about her time at Nationals, "I had a great time traveling to Nationals and spending the week in Michigan with Bloom, Coach V, and Rayna. I am so thankful for the opportunity to have competed at my highest possible level."

"Unfortunately, the mark wasn't exactly what I was seeking, but I am excited about trying again next year. I have to think less about the mark itself and more about all of the success it took to even make it there. Of all the shot putters in the D2 nation, only 21 got to go this year, and I was one of them. That is something I never thought I would accomplish, so the result stays in Michigan, but the memories will come home with me, and I will always cherish them."

All year Fajer had been chasing a spot in her favored event and made leaps of progress towards that goal each week. 

After an entire season of watching her throw, Coach Keegan Bloomfield left Michigan, proud of how far Fajer had come, "This weekend was a great one. Sarah showed up and performed consistently. I'm so proud of her for being the first thrower for CUI to ever qualify for the championships. She's one of the best in the nation, and that's so special. She trusted her coaches and has become such a strong leader within the throws group and our team. Coach Villanueva and Rayna have lead Sarah and the throws group so well this season."

Undoubtedly, Fajer pushed her limits all season and fought for a chance to take on other talented athletes at the highest level possible. Her accomplishments extend far past what she has achieved this weekend, and she holds a positive outlook for next year, "I can't wait to get back on the grind and fight to outperform myself next season. Go eagles!" (Fajer).
 
To read about how the senior thrower qualified for the national meet, click here.