Finally back after a long recovery that took half of his indoor track & field season, Worcester State University senior thrower and captain Eddy Acuna was stronger than ever before COVID-19 ended his outdoor season 10 days before the first meet.

Eddy started throwing in seventh grade when he saw some kids throwing shot put and wanted to give it a go. Track & field really interested him because it was a sport that took place in the winter and spring. After soccer season in the fall, Eddy wanted to continue being active for the two seasons he had off, and track was a perfect fit. “My favorite thing about throwing is that you can always be better and improve your technique and strength,” he said. “It's a sport that practice makes perfect, even though it's hard to perfect throwing.” He qualified for States, All-States, and was a five-time Conference All State at New Englands for shot put in high school.

All through high school Eddy loved throwing, so continuing through college wasn’t a question. After visiting many schools, Worcester State stuck out the most to him due to his encounter with the throwing coach, Shawn McCabe. “He's a big reason I ended up at WSU,” said Eddy. "I really liked him from when we met and knew that we would connect.” And they did.

In his four years at Worcester State, Eddy went on to be a five-time MASCAC Individual Champion, four in shot put and one in discus. His team selected him the 2019 Outdoor Field Athlete of the Year.

Throughout all his success, Eddy struggled with his many injuries. Taking it day by day, he was able to recover and became better and strong.

Going into the outdoor season as a captain, it was hard to say goodbye. Prepared for his best season yet and with hopes of finally making it to Division III Nationals, he knew it was for the best that the season was cancelled. “I'm really going to miss being at practice. It was a lot of fun being with my teammates and being able to practice and help each other,” he exclaimed. “I became close with a lot of people because of track.”

His favorite memory at Worcester State was the men’s team winning both indoor and outdoor MASCAC Championships his freshman year. The excitement of it all is a feeling he’ll never forget.

Eddy still plans on continuing with throwing any chance he gets. But for the time being, he is still practicing shot put in his driveway and continuing drills to keep him in shape.

Eddy’s Worcester State career may have now come to a close, but he still has some advice for current and future Lancer track & field athletes. “Always work hard and stay hungry for more. You’ve got to push yourself in order to be better - the hard work will pay off.”

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