"Unfortunately, Shawn isn't going to be here next year," Johnson said, "because the grad program is only a year long. But we are all learning as much as we can from him while he's here."

For Johnson, that learning experience includes changing her throwing technique completely.

"I just started to spin when I throw," said Johnson. "Before I always used to glide. When you glide one day you are on and one day you're just off, but by spinning I have become much more consistent in my throws.

"Sarah [Link] has been working on the weight this year. It is a new event for her and she has made incredible strides in her technique. Actually, Ken, Tarek, Sarah and I have all thrown well this year."

A new coach is not the only reason for the improvements of some of the throwers. Sometimes a little luck never hurts.

"Before, I never had the opportunity to throw well because I was constantly injured," said Hughes. "In the latter part of my freshman year and my sophomore year I was hurt."

In addition to intimidating the competition, health gave Hughes the great performances which have impressed his teammates.

"Ken had a huge personal best last weekend," said Johnson. "He threw 56 feet which is amazing for any Ivy League thrower."

The throwers in general hope to augment a strong overall showing at the heptagonals by the Crimson.

"The women's team could potentially win the meet," said Johnson. "At our meet against Yale and Princeton, we beat Princeton by three points. They dominated last year, so we were really excited about that because we know we could win Heps this year."

The men's abilities are equally high.

"We have done better this year than any other since I've been here," said Hughes.

Whatever the outcome of the heptagonals, it appears that this was a watershed season for the Crimson throwers. The outlook for the outdoor season, which begins during spring break, looks even better with the additions to the team of freshman Chris Clever and junior Caroline Johnston.