By Matt Browning

Aunisty McNeal, a javelin thrower at Salina South, was chosen as the American Family Insurance Athlete of the Month for March. McNeal finished third in the javelin at the 5A state tournament last season.

McNeal suffered a back injury a year ago, so her primary focus this offseason was to not only maintain a proper shape, but to increase her strength, too.

“This year I have prepared myself for track by playing basketball to keep me in shape,” McNeal said. “I have also been lifting weights to get stronger and to build my core because last year in my first-year throwing, I injured my back.”

McNeal described herself as an athlete that hates to lose which has motivated her this offseason to be able to place higher at state this season.

“I’m a competitive, determined athlete who always tries my best in anything I do,” McNeal said.

In fact, her postseason performances are what stood out to McNeal about her 2021 campaign.

“A couple of my top finishes last season would be placing well at the league and the regionals meet,” McNeal said. “I am proud of my regional meet because I was very happy when I placed second to go to state.”

McNeal hopes to throw in college, but she is not sure where that will be yet.