Entry 1: An Australian Spark igniting the Australian Flame 

2010 has been the most exciting year of my athletic endeavours by far, and it’s not even close to over!

Having finished my first year in the American college system I can say without a doubt the move was no mistake – I’m loving it! I took a pretty big risk in travelling over to Texas in search of new viewpoints and experience in the discus, but I’ve never looked back since.

During the college season early this year I got to meet hundreds of athletes from all around America including Olympic medallists, world championships medallists and upcoming young talent, most of whom were very friendly and helpful. I was quite disappointed at my performances throughout this season; there were a few opportunities here and there that I should have seized and didn’t, but it’s all just good learning experience and will make me even more hungry moving forward.

In Canada, at the world junior championships, my goal is to win, and I firmly believe that I can. I have thoroughly enjoyed my training in the lead-up to this meet and I know that I have trained harder than any competitor I will face, which convinces me that I have the best chance to win it.

The Commonwealth Games isn’t something I have put much thought into yet. I was very excited to receive nomination to attend this meet and I think I will enjoy it a whole lot. I am not throwing distances that make me confident going into this event but I am trying to keep my mind on one thing at a time. I will focus on the Commonwealth Games after the world juniors are over knowing I will have about three months to prepare for it, which is plenty of time.

As for my studies, I’m currently double-majoring in Philosophy and Psychology at Texas Tech University after switching from Exercise and Sports Science, a change I’m very glad I made. Growing up, like many kids I’m sure, I’ve always had a lot of questions for my parents involving the word “why” and hypothetical situations which they have never been able to answer, so I’m now on a journey outside athletics to find these answers myself, and my field of study matches this very well making me confident in my decision.

If you ever see me at a meet, or anywhere for that matter feel free to walk up and say 'hi!' I always love a good chat, particularly about the throwing events, and if you love the discus like me then I’d love to have a throw with you. I’m a pretty big guy, usually with coloured hair and basketball shorts, wearing either thongs or throwing shoes. You can’t miss me.

I love athletics so get used to seeing me around; I’ll be here for a while – ha ha...

Cheers,

Julian