As a part of the USATF Week of Thanks campaign, we are spotlighting some of USATF's most dedicated members with a short feature (Humans of New York-style) on USATF.org and our social media accounts. Here is our fourth feature with 2016 Olympian Kelsey Card, a 28-year-old is from Madison, Wisconsin and a member of the Wisconsin Association. “I began throwing discus in the fifth grade, and picked up the shot put in seventh grade. My first experience with USATF came in 2011 when I competed in my first Junior National Championships in Eugene, Oregon following my senior year of high school. I competed in both the discus and the shot put. I had a pretty poor showing in the discus, and was determined to do better in the shot. I was able to pull out a victory and made my first USA team. I competed in the Pan American Junior Championships later that summer in Miramar, FL. Everytime I make a national team, it is such an amazing feeling and chance to represent my country and the sport I love. Each time feels just as amazing as the first. What I love most about USATF is that everyone of any age, ability, and background can participate and be a part of the USATF family. I think people believe you have to be at a certain level or season of life to belong, and that is not the case. I’m most thankful for all of the opportunities USATF has given me. Not only to travel and compete at the highest levels, but also all of the people I have gotten to meet and get to know. Not just fellow athletes, but coaches, fans, and officials. So many amazing connections and interactions. While it is a huge part, being an athlete is not all my identity consists of. I am all of the bits and pieces that make me, me. I also love being able to share and focus on the importance of mental health and sports psychology.”
Be our next Member Spotlight! Share your USATF journey here for a chance to receive a complimentary annual VIP adult membership courtesy of @teamtoyota! Whether you’re new to the sport or a long-term veteran, click the link in our bio to submit your story. The second Tuesday of each month, check back for Tuesdays with Toyota when we will share that month’s Member Spotlight.