Senior Ike Ackerman made history this season by breaking Class A and Central’s 40-plus-year-old shotput record, an iconic mark long held by Central legend and Nebraska Hall of Famer Larry Station. Ackerman threw 65-4 at the Jo Dusatko Invitational on April 18, beating Station’s 1982 throw of 64-9 ½. 

“It was great breaking the record because of the history it holds at Central,” Ackerman said. “The person that had it is a legend at Central.” 

What made the moment even more meaningful was who stood beside him: his father and coach, John Ackerman.  

“He’s been my coach for around eight years, and it’s been great,” Ackerman said. “We grew a lot together as an athlete-coach and as a son-father.” 

While proud of the milestone, Ackerman isn’t done. He’s aiming to break the all-class record of 66 feet, 11 inches. “The throw felt good, but not great,” he said. 

Shotput may be an individual sport, but Ackerman credits his success to relentless effort.  

“It means a lot because of everything I put into it,” he said. “You get out what you put into it.”  

For years, he looked at Station’s name on the board. Now, he hopes to inspire the next generation. “I hope someone will look at my record hoping to beat it.”