Athlete of the Week: Joaquin Billy

Joaquin Billy is a senior track and field athlete for Magdalena High School. He qualified for state with his shotput throwing at last week’s Socorro Track and Field meet.

What do you like about discus?

Just seeing it go far. Seeing people’s reaction.

What do you have to do to train for that?

I usually practice on the weekends, whenever I have a chance with my cousin Wyatt. We just go home and throw.

How long have you been doing that sport?

Since sixth grade.

How have you seen your throwing change?

It’s changed a lot actually since last year. I see the practice and everything, it does take time but you’ll see results and it will blow you away.

What do you think most made those improvements?

Just a lot of time spinning and throwing and watching yourself and taking people’s advice and critique.

Do you know what you’re going to do after you graduate?

I haven’t decided yet, but more than likely welding. Something in that side.

What makes you want to go on that path?

I enjoy welding, it’s pretty fun. I’m in welding class, I just came from that class.

I understand you also play football?

Yes.

What do you like better, discus or football?

That’s a hard one. Probably football. Football’s pretty fun.

You play with all your friends; you guys are all there in one bunch. You get to learn about each other and encourage each other.

What position do you play?

Center.

Are there any moments from last season that stand out?

I won state in shotput. It was my first year too. It was pretty cool.

Are you hopeful that you’ll make it to state again?

Yeah, I already qualified.

What are you doing to prepare for state?

Mostly just staying calm after you throw. When it’s a big throw you can’t get over excited and pumped, then after that the next throw is bad. So, getting ready for excitement, controlling stuff.

Is there more pressure or less pressure now that you’ve already won shotput?

There’s more pressure. A lot more people chasing me and a lot of people expecting me to do my best and try to repeat.

How do you manage that pressure?

Just stay calm. Don’t talk to anybody. Just sit there and try to think about something else and not think about all the pressure that’s on you.

How did you get involved in sports in the first place?

My sisters. I watched my sisters do track and basketball, and my dad. I see my dad’s awards, and I decide to do football.

Is there anything you’d say to someone who’s just starting out?

It takes a while to see progress. Don’t let it take you down. Don’t get down about the small things.

Are there any athletes you look up to?

I look up to family members. My cousin, he used to throw pretty far. I look up to him. Probably Michael Jordan. He’s pretty cool.

Why do you look up to Michael Jordan?

Just the stuff he’s done. He’s done quite a bit. The NBA, he’s changed the whole game of it. New things in that time.