FORT MADISON – Fort Madison senior Brylie Lorence made a commitment after not reaching her goals at Drake and the IGHSAU State track meet last year.
That commitment, and a few technical changes, have launched her on a trajectory that could result in the ultimate prize – a state title.
Lorence has started the indoor season as the top hurler in the state in girls' 3A shotput.
Her throw of 44’-10.75” gave her the top distance in the state and the 23rd best shot in the country.
The Lady Hound said she was disappointed with her finish last year and vowed a change in her final season with Fort Madison.
“I was disappointed with my performance at the State meet last year and worked in the offseason to ensure I would do better this year,” she said Tuesday.
“Underperforming at the biggest meet of my career served as one of the major motivators for me this season.”
The offseason involved changing some techniques that allowed her to rotate in the circle rather than glide to the barrier. She fine-tuned that change during lessons and camps, some time with other coaches and Indian Hills' throwing camps during the summer and winter.
Lorence said the switch to rotating into the throw allowed her to utilize her power more. There’s also been more time in the weight room and more focus with Athletic Enhancement Director Derek Doherty’s lifting program.
The strength conditioning is a big part of her performance early on, including the top throw in the state to date.
“I knew I was going to be a good competitor this year, but I never would have imagined being currently ranked No. 1 in the state and 23 in the nation,” she said.
“I am excited to be highly ranked, but it doesn't affect the state meet and meeting my goals of having a state title.
“My performances so far are just a glimpse of what is to come this season as we head to outdoor meets. Indoor season has made me confident in myself and trusting that all the work I did in the offseason has paid off.”
The girls this year are under the leadership of Jordyn Meierotto. Meierotto takes over from Brian Mendez, who has stepped back after close to three decades with the program.
“I wouldn’t necessarily say anything is different for me besides I have one great coach instead of two. Coach Mendez has still been amazing and very supportive throughout the season,” Lorence said.
Her goal last year was to get on the podium at state, but finished 15th with a throw just over 36 feet, a far cry from her early showings in 2025. She’s also hoping for a strong showing at Drake Relays in April.
“My goal for last year was to see the podium at State and, when I fell short of that, I knew right away that I was going to work hard to win State this year. Since May last year, I have had my eyes set on winning a state title.
"I would love to win Drake this year. With how my indoor season went, I know I need to continue to grind and get better so I can see this happen,” she said.
With that in mind, having already surpassed 44-feet has Lorence rethinking her potential for the season.
“I set a goal at the beginning of the season to hit 45 feet. I was surprised to be this close to my goal this soon in my season. After hitting 44’ 10.75” at the Iowa State Championships, I reevaluated and made new goals for my outdoor season. I would like to improve and hit 46 feet by the first few meets of my outdoor season. And by the end of my season, I want to be at least in the 47s,” she said.
“I am going to keep working hard the rest of this season until I meet my goal of winning state.”
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