At just 12 years old, he picked up the hammer for the first time — guided by his father, a former athlete and coach. What started as curiosity quickly became passion, as the complexity and challenge of hammer throw drew him in. Today, still one of the youngest competitors on the international stage, he has already broken the 70-meter barrier, reached the NCAA finals, and stood among Europe’s top U23 athletes. With relentless dedication, a clear vision, and the support of his coach, he is chasing bigger throws, international medals, and ultimately the Olympic dream.
Q: What made you take up such a unique sport like hammer throw?
A: I started hammer throw when I was just 12 years old. My father, who was also an athlete and coach, introduced me to the sport. From the very first moment, I felt it was something that suited me. The technical side of hammer throw is so demanding and complex that it immediately drew me in. The constant challenge of refining your technique and chasing more and more distance made me fall in love with it.
Q: What has been the highlight of your career so far?
A: Breaking the 70-meter barrier for the first time in 2023. It was a lifelong dream, and it happened earlier than I had expected. That gave me incredible confidence for the rest of the season, where I made the NCAA final — one of the strongest hammer throw finals in NCAA history. I was also the youngest athlete in the field, competing against much more experienced throwers. Shortly after, at the European U23 Championships in Finland, I placed 5th, again as the youngest athlete in the final. I don’t think many people expected me to rank that high alongside the world’s best hammer throwers.
Q: Age seems to play a big role in hammer throw. How does it affect your performance?
A: Hammer throw is probably the most technical event in track and field. To achieve a big throw, you need a mix of relaxation, explosiveness, and strength. Even the slightest unnecessary tension in the body can ruin an attempt. That’s why it takes years of constant repetition to perfect the technique. Most hammer throwers peak between the ages of 29 and 31, so I know I’m still quite far from my best years.
Q: What has been the most difficult moment in your career?
A: Definitely adjusting after moving to the United States. The change of coach and environment was a big challenge. It took me months to find myself again. But I believe it was the right decision because here I found the opportunities and expertise I need to develop at a world-class level.
Q: How does the competition in the NCAA differ from international events?
A: In recent years, the NCAA has become incredibly competitive. Each season, the level keeps getting higher — it feels like competing in a world championship. At the collegiate level, every athlete is supported by a complete system with physiotherapists, nutritionists, and state-of-the-art facilities. Every time I step into the circle, I feel like my entire university depends on me to make them proud. It’s the exact same feeling I get when I put on the colors of the Greek National Team.
Q: What is one moment with the National Team you’ll never forget?
A: Winning the Greek Championship and qualifying for the World U20 Championships. I still remember the nerves that day; my whole body was shaking from the tension. When the competition ended and I saw my name at the top of the scoreboard, I felt an incredible sense of relief. That moment gave me a huge confidence boost that I had never felt before. Without a doubt, that day marked a turning point in my career.
Q: What is your main goal for the upcoming season?
A: My main goal is to stay healthy and fully trust my coach. If I can do those two things, I’m confident I can achieve a very big throw at the NCAA final. I also really want to represent the national team at the European Championships this August. Personally, I believe that staying consistent with big throws this season will lead to strong placements at major competitions. I know the hard work I’ve put in all these years will come out in the circle.
Q: Do you have a big dream for the future as a hammer thrower?
A: Every athlete’s dream is to compete in the Olympic Games. The 2028 Olympics will be held in Los Angeles, where I’ve spent the past four years. You could say it feels like my second home. Since I was a kid, I’ve dreamed of winning an Olympic medal, and I believe I’m getting closer every year to making that dream a reality. I also have great trust in my new coach, Brandon Amo, who I believe will take me to a whole new level as a professional athlete.