Jaida Ross, a standout shot putter for the Oregon Ducks, has been named the national women’s field athlete of the year by the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches’ Association (USTFCCCA). This prestigious recognition follows her remarkable performance at the NCAA championships, where she broke her own NCAA record with a throw of 65 feet, 7 ¾ inches and secured the national title in the shot put.
Ross’s achievements have been extraordinary; she now holds the five best throws in NCAA history. Her recent accomplishments at Hayward Field underscore her dominance in the sport. As she prepares for the U.S. Olympic trials, Ross boasts the second-best mark of the year among her American competitors, positioning her as a strong contender for the upcoming games.
A junior from North Medford High School, Ross has made significant contributions to the Oregon Ducks’ track and field program. She is only the second woman from Oregon to receive the USTFCCCA field athlete of the year honor, following in the footsteps of Brianne Theisen, who won the award in 2010 and 2012.
Ross’s journey and achievements highlight her dedication and skill in shot put, setting a high standard for her peers and solidifying her status as a top athlete in the nation. As she continues to compete at the highest levels, her legacy at Oregon and in the broader track and field community continues to grow.
For more updates on Jaida Ross and the Oregon Ducks, Ryan Clarke covers these topics for The Oregonian. He also co-hosts the Soccer Made in Portland and Ducks Confidential podcasts. Clarke can be reached at rclarke@oregonian.com or on Twitter @RyanTClarke.
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