After her freshman year on the track team, Taylor Richards recognized that it was time for a change.

She did jumps and sprints her first year, and then decided not to go out her sophomore year.

Last season, Richards found her niche. She began throwing discus and javelin and it has been a perfect match.

At the Whitehall Relays last Saturday, Richards recorded personal records (PR) in both events, notching 83 feet in each.

“Last year, I started doing it and I knew it was for me,” said the senior. “This year, I have had PRs in every meet so far with both of them. I especially got better in the discus this year.

“It has been a lot of fun.”

Richards thanked assistant coach John Stofko for his guidance through her transformation. She has managed her PRs through a shoulder injury.

“Coach Stofko always comes up with some different and challenging drills,” she said. “He really pushes us. He is probably the most unique coach I have ever had, and he has some crazy workouts.’

Stofko sees plenty of determination in his senior thrower.

“Taylor (Richards) has been working through a slight shoulder injury, and her work ethic and dedication is allowing her to work through it,” said Stofko. “She is closely working with the trainers.

“Despite her injury, she is setting personal bests, and I expect her to be very competitive the second half of the season and through leagues and districts.”

Head coach Kyle Rusnock also recognizes Richards’ presence.

“Taylor (Richards) is a great leader and role model for the team,” he said. “She is an all-around fantastic athlete and is doing very well. She should get even better in the next several weeks.

“Every team should have a Taylor Richards.”

Richards likes the chemistry on the team.

“We all work well together,” she said. “Everyone is very supportive of each other, and we are all cheering each other on. It is a very tight group that respects each other.”

Richards, who also played soccer and basketball, plans to attend East Stroudsburg University next fall and pursue a degree in athletic training.

“I know I want to stay around sports, and I have enjoyed my anatomy classes,” she said. “I have thought about a career like this for a while.”

Richards believes she can do well in leagues and keep working toward districts.

“I know I have some work to do,” she said. “I feel confident I can keep increasing my marks.”