The hammer throw is an event in track and field that combines strength, technique and athleticism. It requires not only physical power but also mental discipline and precision. At the end of the 2024 outdoor track and field season, however, the hammer throw event was banned in all Ohio high schools due to the risk of injury to spectators and athletes.
The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) needs to reconsider this decision for the benefit of young athletes.
Completely banning the event seems like an overreaction, especially when other high-risk events such as pole vaulting and hurdling are still allowed. If proper precautions are taken, there should be no reason the hammer throw cannot be just as safe as other events. Let’s not vault under the bar on this one.
One of the strongest reasons for keeping the hammer throw is that it offers a unique and challenging experience for athletes, unlike any other sport. In track and field, events like sprints and distance running often dominate attention, but the hammer throw offers a chance for the students who have not excelled in running-based events to shine.
The event requires explosive power, precise technique and strong mental focus– qualities that can be particularly appealing to athletes who prefer strength and coordination over speed. Though many hammer athletes also throw shot put and discus, Ohio high schools lose an important tool and strategy to engage a broader range of throwing and athletes by eliminating the hammer throw, which would foster a more well-rounded track and field program.
Though the main argument for the ban s safety concerns, these are often manageable concerns. Like any event in track and field, the hammer requires proper training, equipment and precautions. When coached properly student-athletes learn adequate barriers to protect themselves, athletes and spectators.
One of the main safety concerns around the hammer throw is the proper technique or lack of experience. At its core, hammer throw is technical, like any other track and field event, and it is important to note that safety begins with proper instruction. In states where the hammer throw is still practiced in high schools, athletes are taught how to properly grip the hammer, maintain balance and control the motion of their throw. The more practice and coaching an athlete receives, the better and safer their technique becomes.
Ohio can better address this issue by ensuring that coaches undergo proper specialized training in hammer throw technique and safety protocols. Coaches should also be required to periodically refresh their knowledge on safety guidelines. By having well-trained coaches who can teach hammer throw’s fundamentals, the likelihood of injury is significantly reduced.
Another safety concern for the hammer throw is the layout and design, from which most hammer throw injuries originate. According to page 2 of The Throwing Officials’ Handbook, “Coaches, photographers, spectators and athletes should be kept back at least 10 or more feet away from the sector lines during any throwing competition and more if possible. It is helpful to have flagging that runs parallel to and about 10-15 feet off the sector lines to ensure compliance.”
In most cases, these rules were not followed by the personnel who were injured. These guidelines help ensure that there’s enough distance between the athletes and anyone who might be in harm’s way. Ohio can improve the event by ensuring there is ample space in the area where the hammer is thrown and making sure spectators are the appropriate distance from the sector and pit where the implement is thrown. If space is a concern, schools can look into utilizing a large outdoor field or areas where there is plenty of space to meet the proper safety guidelines. Additionally, holding hammer throw events at venues where other safety measures are already in place to ensure safety guidelines are met.
By fostering an environment of safety and awareness, high school athletes will not only sponsor their own safety but will sponsor a better understanding of their role and how to keep everyone involved safe.
The idea that the hammer throw should remain banned in Ohio because of safety concerns is an extremely simplistic view of the event and possible dangers that are ultimately still risked in other events in the track and field community. With the proper coaching, layout, regulations and education, the event can be safely reintegrated into the track and field programs.
Reinstating the event would provide students with the chance to participate in a challenging yet rewarding event while maintaining the highest standards of safety. It’s time to throw out this ban and hammer the issue on the head without being overlooked.
