#SDSportsAwards, girls field: Izzy Van Veldhuizen led by example

Izzy Van Veldhuizen will take to the basketball court for her college career, but she’s more than made her mark in track and field.

The Lincoln senior, who will suit up next season for Augustana, has been a major force on the throwing scene in 2016. Her bests in the discus (136 feet, 6 inches) and shot put (43-10.5) are the top marks in South Dakota this season – as well as school records.

“Izzy is such a competitor,” said coach Jim Jarovski, who told the story of Van Veldhuizen’s top discus throw this season.

At a meet in Mitchell this season, Van Veldhuizen threw it 119 feet only to be outgunned by the last two throwers in the finals. But Van Veldhuizen had another throw.

“Then Izzy steps up and bombs out a 136 – her best all-time,” Jarovski said. “Then she comes back to [assistant coach] Brian Bechard and said, ‘I don’t like to lose.’ That’s how much of a competitor she is.”

MORE: See other winners of the S.D. Sports Awards

On the court, Van Veldhuizen is a blend of athleticism and strength, and often goes the extra mile for loose balls and on hustle plays. As a thrower, she’s determined, stoic even.

“There’s a calming influence Izzy has over those other girls,” Jarovski said. “She’s one of the top athletes in South Dakota as a standout in three different sports. The other kids look up to her – she’s a leader. And her competitiveness rubs off.”

VanVeldhuizen hasn’t ruled out competing in track at Augie, though her concentration is on basketball. As a matter of rule, though, there’s bound to be success wherever she sets her focus.