Maybe the most dominant thrower in recent Oakdale High School history, Hannah Chappell was a four-time CIF State Finalist during her time as a Mustang student-athlete.

Chappell graduated in 2016 and made a name for herself in discus and shot put while on the OHS campus.

“Discus was definitely my favorite to compete in,” said Chappell.

She was recognized by more than just local coverage, as she was also nominated by the Sportsmen of Stanislaus Club (S.O.S. Club) as Student-Athlete of the Year both her junior and senior season. She won the award her senior year.

Following graduation from Oakdale, she attended Alabama where she continued her throwing career. She spent two years as a member of the Crimson Tide program before transferring to Fresno State University. As a Bulldog, she helped win the Mountain West Championship in hammer throws and was a two-time NCAA Regional qualifier.

“Hammer throwing was lots of fun and challenging. It was a great change of pace for me,” Chappell explained.

She noted that her biggest challenge since leaving Oakdale was her Masters project at Fresno State.

“It was on Student Athlete Support and Success for track and field athletes. It was very detailed and I am proud of it.”

Chappell’s advice for high schoolers suiting up for sports is “enjoy the time as a student-athlete while you can. It flies by. Also, make sure you use your eligibility to the fullest.”

Chapell realizes that her journey in throwing was not hers alone. She said that her career was assisted by many people who helped her reach the top, including her father, Oakdale High School throws coach Brett Chappell.

“Obviously he deserves so much acknowledgement when it comes to teaching not just me but so many others over the years,” Chappell said. “I would also like to acknowledge Fresno State coach Joe Riccio.”

Today, Chappell is a land surveyor and she also has her teaching credential. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking.

“Memorable Mustangs” is a series that highlights former Oakdale High School student-athletes and where they are now. If you are or if you know a student-athlete who graduated from OHS from 2010-2024 and would like to be featured in the series, email Dennis D. Cruz at ddcruzsports@gmail.com.