Cole Garbett saved his best for last, capping his high school throwing career with a pair of state titles and two record-breaking performances.
The Soda Springs High School athlete ended his senior year by winning state championships in both the shot put and discus events at the Idaho High School Activities Association state championships, an accomplishment that few athletes ever achieve. Garbett claimed his shot-put title with a personal-best, school-record throw of 58 feet, 2 inches. He also set a new state meet record in the discus with a throw of 182 feet, 6 inches.
While the medals and records stand out, those closest to Garbett said his success was built long before this season. “Cole showed promise right away, even as a freshman,” said throwing coach Jared Shelton. “Throwing is not a natural movement for most people. It’s very technical, and he caught on very quickly.”
Shelton said that Garbett separated himself early in his career through his willingness to learn and dedication to improvement. By his sophomore year, Garbett had already developed into one of the best throwers Shelton had coached. “There have only been a couple throwers I’ve coached that were as smooth and powerful as Cole,” Shelton said. Beyond his natural talent for throwing, Garbett’s work ethic is what pushed him above and beyond and eventually to a state championship. “There was rarely a weekend I didn’t see him at the ring by himself practicing,” Shelton said. “He videoed nearly every practice throw and competition throw, breaking down every step and looking for every single detail.”
Garbett also had a stellar junior season, but finished second in both discus and shot put. This result turned into more motivation for Garbett to work even harder in the offseason to prepare for his senior year. He spent several months focusing on footwork drills, strength training, and even improving the mental side of competition. “People don’t realize the mentality side of throwing has a huge impact,” Garbett said. “I had a thrower from ISU helping coach me this year, and he really helped me with my mindset.”
Garbett said both events began coming together late in the season. He found consistency in the discus after a personal-record performance at the Tiger-Grizz meet, while his shot-put technique finally clicked just before state.
Despite his dominance in the ring, Shelton said Garbett’s character may be what teammates remember most. “What makes him stand out to me is his kindness and easy-going attitude,” Shelton said. “He’s always helping the other throwers with technique so they can improve. He’s a friend to everyone.”
Garbett’s influence had already spread beyond the current program, with younger athletes looking up to him as an example of what hard work can accomplish. “I hope kids see what I’ve accomplished and learn to pick a sport they love and become the best they can,” Garbett said. For Shelton, Garbett’s legacy went far beyond records and championships. “Everyone already looks to Cole like a big brother,” Shelton said. “They all want to throw like him and be like him — not just as an athlete, but as a person.”