Arlena Kirkendoll: Building Power, Chasing Podiums, and Leaving Her Mark
It didn’t take long for Arlena Kirkendoll to make an impact at Clinton High School. After qualifying for state in shot put as just a freshman, she’s heading into her sophomore season with a fire that’s only grown hotter. “My biggest goal is to qualify for state again in shot put and make it in discus this time too,” she said. “I’ve been putting in a lot of work in both events, and I want to hit PRs that put me at top five at state.”
This offseason, Arlena and her teammates have doubled down on their development. “We’ve really focused on technique and strength,” she said. “There’s been more consistent lifting, and a lot of us—especially the throwers—have been practicing throws even before the season officially started.”
The hard work is showing in more ways than just form and numbers. “There’s a lot more confidence,” Arlena said. “This year, people know what they’re capable of, and that shows in how we practice and compete.”
Her personal routine is just as focused. “I stay on top of my warm-ups, make sure I’ve got solid rest and recovery the night before, and do a lot of stretching to keep my form sharp. Nutrition and hydration are big too,” she said. And when it’s time to compete? “Dialed in. I remind myself of the work I’ve put in and trust my technique. It’s all about being present in the moment and giving it everything I’ve got.”
Arlena competes in both shot put and discus, and she takes pride in the art of each throw. “In throws, I watch how other competitors are throwing to adjust my own approach if needed,” she said.
Looking ahead, Arlena wants her legacy to go beyond medals and records. “I want to be remembered as a thrower who left a mark—not just with results, but with how I led and helped others get better,” she said. She stands 5’6”, plays four sports, and is involved in Student Council. “If I get really good at a certain sport, then I’m going to go to college for that,” she said. “But if not, I want to get my degree and become a neuroscientist or neurologist.”
For now, Arlena Kirkendoll is focused on getting back to state—this time in both events—and proving that her story is only just beginning.
