Holland Reporter

Erika Beistle, a senior from Grand Valley State, has been named the GLIAC Women's Field Athlete of the Week. This recognition follows her achievement as the NCAA Division II Women's National Athlete of the Week, awarded by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA).

Beistle competed in the shot put and discus events during the GVSU Early Meet. Notably, she set a new NCAA Division II record in the discus with a throw of 66.63m (218-7), surpassing the previous record by more than five meters. This accomplishment ranks her as the fourth-best performer in collegiate history.

In addition to her collegiate success, Beistle is currently ranked second in the world, just behind Valarie Allman, who won the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. As noted by the United States Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA), Beistle is "the fourth female National Athlete of the Week during the outdoor season in Grand Valley State history."