Lincoln-Way Central junior Patrick Ciukaj enters the track and field season as a key member of the Knights’ throwing squad, emphasizing both mental focus and physical preparation.
Ciukaj said success in throwing events depends heavily on mindset, noting that overthinking can negatively affect performance.
“Throwing is very mental,” he said. “If you overthink it, you’ll overthrow. You have to clear your head and just execute.”
While arm strength is important, Ciukaj stressed that throwing requires full-body power developed through consistent training and technique work.
“It’s more than arm strength — it’s full body,” he said. “There’s a lot of time in the gym and a lot of focus on form.”
Ciukaj credits former teammates Deacon Weber and Tusley for helping shape his approach during his early high school years, particularly in understanding the mental demands of the sport and the importance of consistent effort.
“They had a big impact on me,” he said. “They showed how much work it takes and how mental it can be.”
In the weight room, Ciukaj prefers a safer, endurance-based approach, focusing on lighter weights with higher repetitions to avoid injury while building strength.
With experience and a disciplined training routine, Ciukaj aims to contribute significantly to Lincoln-Way Central’s success in the throwing events this season.
