By: Sahar Yousofi
On a historic weekend in Spokane, Washington, Jocelyn Saribay etched her name in Saint Martin’s University (SMU) history by securing the gold medal in the women’s weight throw at the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) Championships. With a powerful final throw and an unshakable belief in herself, Saribay not only achieved a personal milestone but also set a new standard for excellence in SMU athletics.
Reflecting on the victory, Saribay described the moment as “surreal,” emphasizing the years of dedication and perseverance that led to her success. “I have been wanting that champion title since the moment I got to SMU. I am so proud of myself for taking it home,” she said. “I have put everything that I have into this sport, and it paid off right when it mattered most.”
A Competition to Remember
The championship event was a true test of skill, endurance, and mental fortitude for Saribay. Battling nerves, she relied on a pre-competition ritual that helped her stay focused—visualizing success and even requesting to see the gold medal she would later claim.
“I tend to get very anxious, especially in championship meets, and this time was no different because I knew it was my last indoor meet ever. Before the competition, I could barely eat breakfast with my family. But I reminded myself that no matter what happens, the people who love me will love me regardless,” Saribay shared.
As the final round unfolded, Saribay led with an impressive mark of 16.08 meters (52 feet, 9.25 inches). With only one competitor left to throw, the anticipation was overwhelming. When her closest rival fouled on the final attempt, Saribay knew she had secured her victory. Overcome with emotion, she stepped into the ring for her last throw with tears in her eyes, blowing kisses to her family and soaking in the significance of the moment.
“I’ll never forget that feeling. I walked into the ring for my last throw bawling my eyes out. I started a clap, and everyone in the area joined in. I wasn’t even thinking about my mark at that point because I had already won. It was all about celebrating everything I had worked for,” she recalled.
Training and Overcoming Challenges
Saribay’s journey to the championship was defined by rigorous training and resilience. Since September, she dedicated herself to an intensive routine that included weightlifting, technical drills, and countless repetitions.
“The champion title isn’t going to get handed to you,” Saribay quoted her coach, Dwight Midles. “That always encouraged me to keep pushing no matter what.”
In the days leading up to the competition, she faced an unexpected challenge—severe back pain from the physical toll of throwing a 20-pound weight daily. Making a strategic decision to rest, she prioritized recovery, ensuring she was in peak condition on competition day.
Beyond the physical demands, Saribay had to navigate immense mental pressure. The stakes were high—not only was she competing in front of her entire family, but she was also striving to make history for SMU. Through it all, she leaned on a mantra that kept her grounded: “No matter what happens after this meet, the people who loved me yesterday will still love me tonight and tomorrow.”
A Historic Victory for SMU Track and Field
Saribay’s gold medal win is a defining moment for SMU’s track and field program. She became the first female athlete in school history to win a GNAC title in a field event, paving the way for future champions.
Her coach, Dwight Midles, praised her relentless work ethic: “Jocelyn has worked very hard this year, never missing practice, always presenting a positive attitude, and believing in herself, even when events did not always go well.”
Head Coach John Schultz echoed this sentiment, calling Saribay a leader and an inspiration to her teammates. “She has put in the time and effort and has a competitive spirit to be the best that she can be,” he said.
Teammates’ Reactions and Inspiration
Saribay’s teammates erupted with joy at her victory, expressing admiration for her dedication and leadership. Alberta Samuelu, a fellow thrower, described the moment as “electrifying,” adding that Saribay “always puts in the work and shows us what we need to do.”
Vanessa Bledsoe highlighted Saribay’s unwavering commitment: “She always has a ‘why.’ Sometimes athletes don’t always have motivation, but they have dedication. Jocelyn has always had the dedication to continue getting better and throwing farther.”
Taryn Wochnick shared how Saribay’s triumph has inspired the entire team: “She is going to be the person we look up to over the years because of her accomplishments.”
Teammate Vanessa Bledsoe described the team’s reaction when Saribay secured her title: “In short, there was a lot of screaming! We knew she could do it, but witnessing it was a whole different event. As soon as she walked out of the throws area, we couldn’t help but give her a big hug. We were and are still so proud of our friend, teammate, and now GNAC CHAMP.”
Looking Ahead
With the indoor season behind her, Saribay now sets her sights on the outdoor season, where she will compete in the hammer throw and shot put. Her ultimate goal? To embrace every moment of her final collegiate season and, hopefully, secure another championship title.
“I’m sad to let this go, but I want to take it all in, meet by meet, and enjoy my last official season as a collegiate athlete,” Saribay shared.
As she prepares for her next challenge, Saribay offers this advice to aspiring athletes: “Push yourself beyond your limits, especially when you are tired. If you want to achieve something, you have to put in the work—don’t take shortcuts. Also, speak what you want into existence. Whatever you believe to be true about yourself is, even if it’s not yet.”
Saribay’s journey is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the power of belief. As she continues to break barriers, she leaves behind a legacy that will inspire SMU athletes for generations to come.
The Belltower 