Posted: May 12, 2023
Adrian Moreno, Track and Field
1. Tell me about your time here at OCC … what have you enjoyed the most out of it? And … what made you decide to come here in the first place?
I’ve enjoyed all of my time at OCC, I’ve met new friends, and even coaches who were mentors to me. One of the main reasons why I came toO CC is because I wanted to be in a new environment where I could continue my education. I also heard the school was right by the beach so that interested me as well.
2. So tell me about what got you into competing for track and field? I see your name in the stats for the throwing events. What inspired you go get into that part of the sport?
Football season was finishing up and the varsity offensive line coach told me I’m going to throw shot put and disc, at the time I didn’t know what any of those meant. Little did I know the guy that was grabbing me into a whole new universe was one of the best coaches in Orange County for track and field, Bill Pendleton. At the time, it did not sound like fun throwing a heavy ball or a frisbee-looking item, but after countless years of hard work and dedication, it has been fun.
3. So … tell me the secret to maximizing every ounce of strength and power for these events. Obviously, between the hammer throw and shut put, they are like apples and oranges. What are the keys for maximum distance for each event.
The secrets to maximizing every ounce and power for the hammer and shot are staying elastic throughout the throw. The hammer throw is a ball on a wire and a shot put is only the implement with no sort of wiring. Some pointers for achieving maximum distance in the shot is working your right foot when you’re in the middle of the throw and getting a long finish in the end. Hammer is similar to shot, but for hammer you need to control your balance throughout or you’ll lose your orbit.
4. I’ve always wanted to ask the throwers this … right before each throw, there is a pause for focus and calm before the throw … what’s going through your minds there at that point?
What’s going on through my mind before every throw is taking a deep breath before entering the ring and when I got in there, I focus on what I’ve been working on at practice.
5. How would your fellow track teammates describe who you are, if I were to ask them?
I believe they will describe me as a person with a strong work ethic and passionate about everything I do. I love getting the best out of my teammates by motivating them and always giving them pointers. I’m quite at times but have a great sense of humor.
6. The one thing I really appreciate about OCC track is the team chemistry this group seems to have. Even though it’s one of the biggest squads we have in our athletics department, there’s always a tight bond within the group. Where does that come from and how much fun has it been to compete for Coach Williams and the rest of the coaching staff?
I believe our team builds chemistry when were at our hardest times. For instance, we bonded at summer the most when we were all new faces and coach Williams was putting us to work so we’re ready for season. It’s been a great experience competing for Coach Williams, she has an amazing soul and always pushed us towards our goal. She not only got us ready for track season, but also prepared us for life.
7. What is your favorite pre-event meal or snack?? What about after a competition??
My favorite pre-event snack is a banana with peanut butter covered over all of it. I also enjoy eating Slim Jim’s (beef jerky) After competition, I usually eat a sandwich and more Slim Jim’s.
8. Favorite all-time Movie? AND … Favorite SPORTS movie?
My favorite movie of all time are "Cars 1,2, and 3". One of my favorite sports movies of all time is "Rudy" because he was undersized to play football, but that didn’t stop him from making his dreams happen.
9. Favorite all-time Song?
"Down Under" by Men at work.
10. What’s the No. 1 travel destination on your Bucket List? OR What’s your No. 1 sporting event you want to see that’s tops on your bucket list?
My No. 1 travel destination is flying to Greece and being a tourist for a day. The No. 1 one sporting event on my bucket list is watching a UFC event with great cards and main events.
