Penn Relays Preview: PA Boys Invitational Events


High School Boys' Discus Throw - Friday, 9:30 A.M.

PA Entries: J'ven Williams (Wyomssing Area)

Williams is the lone PA entry in the discus, set for Friday morning at Penn. It's been a strong season for the junior, who is getting hot at the right time heading into the big stage in Philly. He tossed a PR of 177-5 for the win at Wilson this past Saturday for the win, and that improved on his own PA No. 1 in the event. There is a talented Jamaican contingent in this field, but Williams should compete well, and he'll be shooting for another PR.

High School Boys' Javelin Throw - Friday, 9:30 A.M.

PA Entries: Miles Higgins (Ligonier Valley); Drew Mruk (Wyoming Area); Matthew Prebola (Tunkhannock); Josiah Sechler (Mifflin County); Ethan Stroup (Altoona Area)

Prebola will make his invitational debut on Friday morning, and the reigning PA No. 1 from last year will be looking to start his senior season off with a bang. The Duke recruit tossed 222-2 last year and was second at the PIAA State Championships in AAA. Keyshawn Strachan of St. John's (Jamaica) will be a tough one to beat, but Prebola should compete well in this field.

Mruk has been off to a good start this season, throwing 195, 197, and 187 for some good consistency that will make him a factor in his field. Sechler and Stroup have thrown well to start off this spring, too, and are worth keeping an eye on.

High School Boys' Shot Put - Friday, 9:30 A.M.

PA Entries: Patrick Donaher (Haverford School); Wade Shomper (Cumberland Valley); Ronde Washington (Perkiomen Valley)

Shomper has been on a tear this spring after an impressive indoor season. The senior has gotten even better, topping the 60-foot barrier a few weeks ago with a mark of 61-4.5, which is PA No. 1 and US No. 21 entering the weekend. He'll be one to watch in this field. Washington was second at the indoor state meet, and put down a season best of 55-6 this spring and has thrown 56-5 indoors. Donaher is still waiting for a big pop this outdoor season, but did throw 56-0 this past winter.