Aaron Phares, Tascosa track and field, Sr.

In the ring: It was an unbelievable District 3-5A track and field meet for Tascosa senior. Phares had a Thursday at Lubbock-Cooper High School he’ll never forget and set school record in the process. Phares had thrown 59-feet in the shot put earlier this season, however, at the district meet, he went to another level going over 60-feet on three separate occasions where he eventually broke the school record set by Nick Jones in 2007, by tossing a 62-11 1/2 to win gold and move on to area.

Phares, a state qualifier last season, is getting set to compete at the District 3-5A/ 4-5A Area Track and Field Meet set for Friday, April 17, in Lubbock.

Coach Jay Belcher: “It was awesome. Everyone has been working so hard and Aaron has been hitting around 61-feet in practice and we knew he had that potential. Every year we see guys that break a record, but this one was special. Nick Jones was an All-American and an Olympic qualifier, so this was cool. Aaron is very coachable and works until he perfects it.”

Phares: “I thought the school record was 65-feet, so I didn’t know if I could get it. We were at the district meet and I threw a 61 and my coaches told me I was really close. The next throw I put into everything I had into it. I was able to get it by an inch and that was amazing. I was throwing really well and I wasn’t forcing anything. Having a throw like that makes me more hungry as we head to area and regional. I had a 59 early but then I took a few steps back. I was doubting myself but now I have a lot of confidence in how I’m throwing and my goal to state is still there.”

About Phares

Favorite band or musician: He likes all types of music

Favorite social media platform: TikTok

Favorite athlete: Ryan Crouser

Bet you didn’t know: He loves to draw.

Parents: Rusty and Crystal Phares.