Sophomore Noah Holm has put together a strong start to his career as an Anteater, having already made his way into the top-10 in the UCI record books in both the shot put (5th) and discus (8th). This season, the thrower competed in eight meets for the 'Eaters, recording season-bests of 56-03 in the shot put at the OC Dual and 176-09 in the discus at the Big West Championships. 
 
In the latest edition of our Q&A series, Noah discusses his hunger to continue improving on his already impressive marks and talks about his dream career in social media marketing. 
 
 
Q: You have worked your way into the top-10 in program history in both the shot put and discus over the past couple seasons. What do these accomplishments mean to you?
A: I am glad to have gotten this far and am happy with what I have done. However, I see them more as stepping stones to getting to that #1 spot in the record books.
 
Q: What goals do you have for yourself as you continue your career as an Anteater?
A: I want to go to regionals in my events and also eventually hold both #1 records at UCI.
 
Q: Can you describe your decision-making process in choosing to attend UCI?
A: Well, UCI is already a well-known school so when I was presented the opportunity to come here I quickly took it. On top of the academics you have some of the best track and field coaches here. What more could you want?
 
Q: You were a multi-sport athlete in high school, excelling in both football and track & field. Why did you ultimately decide to pursue track & field at the collegiate level?
A: I will always love football no doubt but I never felt the same after trying the shot put and discus. The feeling you get from accomplishing a goal you alone worked so hard to achieve is like no other. In track and field there is you and your work. Nobody relies on you and you rely on nobody. It's all you and what work you put in you get out in the shot and disc. That is the reason I wanted to continue track and field at the collegiate level.
 
Q: Who has been the biggest inspiration for you throughout your track & field career?
A: The big man himself Ryan Crouser. His work ethic, training style, and pure athleticism is something I strive for. He is an athlete in every way and exudes the kind of personality that many elite athletes need. He is humble and proud. I think Ryan has found the best balance of personality and power in this sport.
 
Q: What is the greatest piece of advice you have received?
A: Blood, sweat, and tears are never required. They only make the journey a bit more fulfilling.
 
Q: How do you prepare yourself mentally and physically before a competition?
A: Physically I like to eat a good hearty meal then try and stay stretched and loose until it is competition time. That means a lot of stretching and rolling out. Mentally I try to think about all the best throws I have done and think how to improve them. Then I go into a meet with a smile on my face and fire in my heart.
 
Q: What is your go-to meal after a competition?
A: Hawaiian. Aloha BBQ right here in Irvine always hits right.
 
Q: What is your major and what is your dream career?
A: Sociology is my major and the career I strive to have is one in social media marketing. I want to be able to help others bring their ideas, products, or personalities to many more people across the globe.
 
Q: What has been the most beneficial class you have taken throughout your time on campus so far?
A: Sociology 1. Although it was one of the first classes I took, it really made me look at the world in a different light. It inspired me to start asking more questions about everything around me which has made life a lot more interesting.
 
Q: Do you have any other passions or hobbies outside of track & field?
A: I enjoy playing pool. It is a great thing to do when you want to catch up with your friends or just relax while not being locked on a screen. I also really enjoy photography and traveling. Although with COVID I haven't been able to do it as much, I look forward to the world coming back to some semblance of normal so I can start those hobbies again.
 
Q: Can you tell us something interesting about you that most people don't know?
A: I have Danish citizenship. My father is from Denmark and moved here for work then met my mom. So, half of my family lives out there and I get to visit as much as possible.