Jeff Moeller, sports correspondent

Richmond Hill’s Jaleal Barnard someday envisions himself throwing the shot put and discus in college. The high school junior has already established himself as one of the elite throwers in the greater area.

But in the meantime, Barnard will continue to excel this season and build upon his career for his final season next year.

A football standout, Barnard chose track to make his own mark and to have a sense of self worth throwing the discus and shot put.

Barnard was a second-team, all-region defensive lineman choice, recording 48 tackles and eight of them for a loss. Middle school football coach Josh Eads also played a part in his track career.

“I do have a strong interest to compete at the collegiate level,” said Barnard.

"I initially became a track athlete because I valued the individual accountability of the sport, where both my mistakes and my successes are my own.

“My eighth-grade coach (Eads) also put me in it.”

Barnard began his track career in middle school, and he has been on an upward spiral since then. His current personal bests are 154.1 in the discus and 51.9 in the shot put, both achieved this season.

His mark in the discus is third in the region, and his shot put mark is second. Barnard’s shot put best was a new school record.

Both personal bests have helped fuel his postseason aspirations for this year. Last season, Barnard’s bests were a 51.25 in the shot and 120.3 in the discus.

“Since starting in the eighth grade, I have seen significant growth in my performance,” said Barnard. “After narrowly missing the state championships at sectionals last year, I have remained focused on steady improvement.”

His earlier meet at Florida State University also proved to be a motivating tool.

“Competing at FSU gave me valuable exposure to a higher level of competition,” added Barnard. “I now feel prepared and confident to take my throwing career to the next level in college.”

Head track coach Levi Sybert has appreciated watching Barnard’s growth.

“Yes, he has thrown very well,” said Sybert. “He set career marks in the discus and shot put this year and has the school record in the shot put.

“He continues to get better every season and is a junior. He has a pretty promising future, Jaleal takes direction very well and has become a very good leader.”

Barnard continues to draw support from his family. His father, Michael Barnard Sr., has been a steady stream of encouragement.

“My dad has coached me and given me pointers,” said Barnard. “My family and friends have been a significant influence on my career. My father, mother, and several family friends all participated in track and field.

“They have been instrumental in my development by pointing out technical mistakes, guiding me through the correct steps, and pushing me to achieve my goals.”

Barnard also credits his success to viewing the techniques of Ryan Crouser in the shot put and Reggie Jagers for the discus; both are former USA stars who have set their share of records in their respective categories.

Yet, Barnard still seeks to maintain his individuality.

“Regarding my throwing style, I watch Ryan Crouser for shot put and Reggie Jagers for discus,” said Barnard. “While I study their techniques, I focus on molding my own style to fit my physical build and mechanics.”

Over the years, Barnard’s confidence has grown, and he has developed a strong sense of self-assurance to build upon.

“I felt comfortable throwing in high school around ninth grade when I started to place in the top five,”said Barnard. “I have drawn inspiration from looking in the distance, so I can feel more free.

“I am comfortable with where I am this season, but I want more for myself.”