Johannes Swanepoel

Track & Field - Class of 2010

"Though he loved playing football and earning All-Sunflower League honors, Johannes Swanepoel may have been the most dominant athlete in Kansas Track and Field history. Johannes won the State Championship in javelin throw in his sophomore, junior, and senior seasons, each time with a new state record distance. He threw 8 of the longest javelin throws in Kansas history. Going into his senior year, Johannes wanted to be even better, so he refocused his goals. One competition in particular really puts Johannes' competitive spirit into perspective. As a senior, approaching his last throw of his stellar career – his best throw already a state record distance – Johannes faced a huge throng of Raider students cheering him on, and he did not disappoint. After both he and the announcer urged the crowd to get loud, Johannes started his approach and, on the last throw of his high school career, hit a perfect arc. When the throw landed, the students at the end of the arc erupted, as did the fans near the runway. Johannes had thrown a state best ever distance of 238'5" – a distance that is the sixth best high school throw of all time. To those who were there that day, it was an unforgettable and distinct moment of celebration. It certainly highlighted the Hall of Fame nature of Johannes' high school career, and led to him being named Kansas Gatorade Track and Field athlete of the year. From SM South, Johannes went to throw for the University of Kansas where he was an All-American athlete his freshman year. Unfortunately, injuries derailed the balance of his college career. The Raider Athletic Hall of Fame members share a common trait – those who were multi-sport athletes and those who create big moments on even bigger stages. Johannes has done both and has undoubtedly earned a place in the Raider Athletic Hall of Fame. Welcome, Johannes, to the Raider Athletic Hall of Fame."