Jan Jeuschede, a senior thrower, knew just what he had to do at the Big 12 Championships this weekend to meet the goals he set for himself.

After a personal best performance in the men’s weight throw at the Big 12 Championships in Ames, Jeuschede took second place overall, landed a personal best performance and left with a ticket to the NCAA Championship in Birmingham, Al.

“I just wanted to compete well and have fun,” Jeuschede said. “And I certainly did that.”

Despite facing the adversity of an injury, Jeuschede kept pushing forward. A stress fracture to his throwing wrist set him back, but with hard work and patience, Jeuschede recovered and got back into shape in just enough time to compete. 

“I got into good shape at the right time,” Jeuschede said.  “And was able to put pretty good throws together here.

“It took a little time to get back into the swing of things. It’s just been getting better and better every meet and practice. “

The native of Germany went into the event ranked third and fought for a second place finish with two other Big 12 athletes.

“I was really happy to get that second place,” Jeuschede said. “That was my goal.” 

With fierce competition, Jeuschede kept his goals in mind and put aside the fact he was facing one of the best throwers in the world, Ryan Crouser, who tied the collegiate record this weekend. 

“The competition was really good,” Jeuschede said.

Ahead of Jeuschede is not only the NCAA Championships, but also the spring outdoor season, where he hopes to have an ever better season.

“I think it sets a good foundation for my spring season,” Jeuschede said.