Coming off a District 2 Class 3A gold medal in the javelin last week at Scranton Veterans Memorial Stadium, Dallas junior Hunter Pitcavage went to the PIAA meet in Shippensburg and finished second in the javelin Saturday with a throw of 198-03. The throw was also a NFHS Honor Roll mark.

What was the mindset like going into states? How were you feeling: I was feeling good. I was just trying to stay in a clear state of mind and get ready to throw the javelin pretty far.

Obviously, weather played a factor on Saturday with the rain and cold temperatures. How much did that affect you: Obviously, it did play a little bit of a role, but it’s more of a mental thing, really. If you let it affect you, it’s going to. But if you compete like it’s a normal day with no rain or bad weather, you are going to be just fine.

Walk me through your day. Were you happy with the way that you threw: I wouldn’t say that I was completely happy, but I was happy that I improved from last year. I was looking to improve on that mark of hitting 214 feet, but it didn’t happen at states. I am still looking forward to achieving that mark, but overall, I was happy to come home with a second-place finish.

What’s the emotions like being on that medal podium: It’s awesome. Looking up at the crowd at Shippensburg, that big set of bleachers staring at you that’s so loud when you are getting the pictures taken, it’s like a once-in-a-lifetime feeling.

With another season left to go, what did you learn, and what did you bring out of this year: You have to prepare the right way, and definitely make sure that you get your implements weighed a little earlier because that could knock you off. Really, though, just have fun and don’t stress. Just have fun and do your thing.

Get to Know Hunter Pitcavage …

Year: Junior.

Hometown: Dallas.

Age: 17.

What are some of your hobbies outside of school: I love to go to the gym and lift. I enjoy hanging out with friends and spending time with family. I also love fishing and hunting.

Sports: Football, wrestling and track and field.

How would you describe yourself to someone: I would say that I like to do a lot of crazy stuff, just pushing the limits of what I can do. I always look for that PR, doing something better than I did previously, or just doing something better than someone else. I am very competitive.

Favorite food: Sirloin steak.

Favorite school subject: History.

Your team is coming over for dinner, and you are the chef. What are you making them: Pasta and meatballs.

Favorite TV show: The Outer Banks.

Favorite movie: “Greater.”

Favorite athlete: Johannes Vetter and Saquon Barkley.

Favorite sports team: Penn State.

Favorite Restaurant: Texas Roadhouse.

Funniest teammate: Owen Oldt and Trevor Slavinski.

Any pre-match rituals: I listen to music and sit with my friends.

Future plans: Pitcavage plans to continue his academic and athletic career in college.