Animal science student selected as Big 10 Indoor Field Athlete of the Year

March 07, 2013

Beth Rohl, senior animal science major, was chosen Big Ten Indoor Field Athlete of the Year as announced by the conference office on Wednesday, Feb. 27.

Beth Rohl, senior animal science major, was chosen Big Ten Indoor Field Athlete of the Year as announced by the conference office on Wednesday, Feb. 27. The 2013 Big Ten champion in the weight throw, Rohl posted a career-best mark of 22.17m/ 72-9 to set a new school record. This marks the second Field Athlete of the Year recognition for Rohl, her first for the indoor season, as she received the award for the first time in the 2011 outdoor season.

“It’s a good way for me to go out with it being my last year,” said Rohl, “I was excited to hear the news. I’ve just been giving it my all since it’s my last go around. I’ve been doing all the work, so it’s great to finally get the award for indoor. This pushes me even more to go for it at NCAAs.”

Rohl’s Big Ten title win this past weekend was the fifth individual weight throw title this season for the New Buffalo, Mich., native and second Big Ten Indoor title of her career. She claimed her first indoor weight throw title in 2009.

“It’s a great honor,” said director of track & field/cross country Walt Drenth. “When you consider the high quality of athletes in the Big Ten, to be chosen among her peers in all field event areas, it’s well-earned. She has consistently proved through the course of the indoor season that she is a great athlete. She comes through in the clutch. Her performances have been timely. Winning a Big Ten title, regardless of how talented you are, is no easy task. I’m really proud of her work and her efforts. With an award like that, it sets a standard in something that’s hard to do. Beth has set a standard for the people on the team now that these things are achievable. Hopefully it won’t be long until we receive another award like this.”