IU Kokomo's Sydney Duncan earns championship ring for shot put success
Cougar athletics kicked off the new academic year by honoring one of the top female throwers in the country.
Junior Sydney Duncan received her national championship ring at athletic orientation on Monday, August 18, recognizing her 2025 NAIA National Championships in indoor track and field shot put and outdoor track and field shot put.
Athletic Director Heather Hayes commended Duncan on her historic sophomore year.
“She dominated female track and field throwing events,” Hayes said, adding that she earned a place among the top 20 female throwers in the United States, including not only the NAIA, but NCAA Division I, Division II, and Division III.
“We have one of the top throwers in the nation right here at IU Kokomo, and that’s pretty spectacular,” Hayes said.
She also commended Duncan for her work ethic, noting that the day after she threw two meters farther than anyone else in the indoor track and field shot put championships, she was back in the weight room, even though her team had the day off. She’s also an outstanding student.
“Sydney, we are so proud of you, not just for your athletic achievements, but for the outstanding student and high character individual you are off the field,” Hayes said. “You have brought national attention to the IUK track and field program and our university as a whole, while representing us with class and integrity. Thank you for your hard work, your excellence, and your example.”
Chancellor Mark Canada also offered congratulations on behalf of the campus, adding that he was impressed by Duncan’s dedication.
“That’s how you get to excellence, by putting in the work,” he said. “That’s true for every aspect of life including in the classroom. Know that you are setting an example and you are inspiring everyone around you.”
Duncan’s additional accolades include being named US Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCA) 2025 NAIA National Women's Field Athlete of the Year in both the indoor and outdoor seasons. Her winning shot put throw of 16.79 meters at outdoor nationals places her #3 in NAIA history. She also set lifetime bests in hammer throw and discus. She’s a four-time NAIA All-American in shot put and earned All-American honors in discus.
For the latest Cougar athletics news, go to iukcougars.com.
Education is KEY at Indiana University Kokomo.