Multi-sport athlete A.J. Epenesa continues to make his mark in the discus and now he has one of the best high school discus tosses in the country.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Epenesa opened some eyes on Tuesday afternoon at the Alton Freshman-Sophomore Relays, letting the discus fly 187 feet, 2.5 inches, topping his school record set already this season of 180-3.

Article continues after sponsor message

Epenesa’s 187 feet, 2.5 inches toss is seventh best in the nation for high school discus throwers and the longest throw in the country by a sophomore. Epenesa is a standout on Edwardsville High School's football, basketball and track teams.

“Considering he is a sophomore and he actually came into high school never throwing before it is a story within itself,” Edwardsville track coach Chad Lakatos said. “He struggled a little bit with three fouls at Belleville West. That may have motivated him to come out like he did in the Alton Relays.”

Lakatos sees nothing but a bright future ahead for Epenesa, also one of the top football recruits in the country at his defensive end position.

“It is a matter of reps for him and being able to place the discus between the lines,” Lakatos said. “Coach Martin, who coaches our shot put and discus throwers, will work with him.”

Prefer RiverBender on Google
Copyright 2026 Riverbender.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

 

More like this:

Edwardsville Grad A.J. Epenesa Joins Philadelphia Eagles NFL Roster
Jun 11, 2026
Stillwater Senior Living Male Athlete Of The Month: Xavier Harris Made Positive Contribution To Warriors As Freshman
Jul 2, 2026
STATE CHAMPION AGAIN: Tom Lane State Farm Insurance Male Athlete Of The Month: CM's Max Weber Wins IHSA 2A 3,200 State Title
May 30, 2026
Midwest Members Credit Union Male Athlete Of The Month: Blake Sorgea Builds Bright Future in Oilers Track
Jun 2, 2026
Sparklight Male Athlete Of The Month: Colby Goetten Breaks Jersey Pole Vault Record Held Since 1977
Jun 3, 2026