The Nation’s Top High School Discus and Shot Put Throwers Call South Mississippi Home!

Some of the nation’s best track and field athletes call South Mississippi home! Three local high school athletes stopped by the WXXV studio to talk with Sports Director Ansley Brent about their national championship finishes last weekend.

The trio from Fairley Track Club all earned spots on the podium at the 2026 Adidas Outdoor Track Nationals in Greensboro, North Carolina. They discussed the emotions of their victories, their favorite parts of the event, the strong bond they share as teammates, and why they believe others should compete in track and field.

West Harrison graduate Sean Fairley ended his high school track and field career on the highest note possible. The Southern Miss signee is the 2026 Adidas Outdoor Track Nationals Elite Division Discus National Champion with a throw of 58.14 meters (190 feet, 9 inches). With that championship-winning throw, Fairley also set a new Adidas Outdoor Nationals meet record.

The freshman phenom strikes again! Pass Christian freshman Samuel King is the 2026 Elite Division Shot Put National Champion. The 15-year-old’s throw of 17.14 meters (56 feet, 2 inches) broke the Mississippi freshman record, the Adidas Outdoor Nationals freshman record, and ranks as the sixth-best throw in Mississippi history.

Gautier sophomore Donald Tubbs Jr. is a 2026 Adidas Outdoor Track Nationals Elite Division discus medalist. His throw of 48.14 meters (157 feet, 11 inches) earned him a fourth-place finish among the nation’s best.

Congratulations to Sean, Sammie, and Donald on their outstanding accomplishments! We look forward to following their future success in the throwing circle.