Jamaican athletic sensation Joseph Salmon, the standout discus thrower from Jamaica College, has officially declared his commitment to join the University of Nebraska’s prestigious track and field program. The 18-year-old throwing specialist, who turns 19 on September 22, selected Nebraska after careful consideration of the program’s exceptional athletic environment and academic offerings.
Salmon expressed strong confidence in his decision, highlighting Nebraska’s roster of elite throwers as a decisive factor. ‘The program features exceptional athletes like Axelina Johansson, who recently shattered indoor shot put records, and Cade Moran, who opened his season with a 20-meter throw,’ Salmon noted. ‘Being surrounded by competitors performing at the highest level creates a driving force that pushes me toward excellence.’
The young athlete’s remarkable potential became undeniable when he launched a massive 66.32-meter throw at the Purewater/RDannyWilliams/JC meet on January 10, 2026—his very first attempt of the season. This phenomenal performance not only set a new meet record but positioned him within striking distance of the longstanding Boys and Girls Athletics Championship record of 66.88 meters, held by Olympian Travis Smikle since 2011.
Salmon, who previously claimed the Class One discus title at the 2025 Championships with a 62.14-meter throw, has significantly surpassed that mark early in the season. Reflecting on his development, the athlete acknowledged that his transfer from Clarendon College to Jamaica College proved instrumental in his rapid advancement. At Nebraska, Salmon will pursue academic studies in Construction Management while continuing to develop his athletic career under top-tier coaching and competition.