GENEVA, Ohio — Pacific Lutheran University student-athlete Darius Chaffin capped off his decorated track & field career on Thursday afternoon, placing 18th in the javelin at the 2025 NCAA Division III Outdoor Championships at the Spire Institute.

Chaffin opened the meet with a toss of 180 feet, eight inches. The Kalihi, Hawaii native has a throw of 180' 1" on his second attempt before saving his best for last, with a mark of 182' 9" on his final attempt. That effort was good for 18th overall, finishing ahead of Northwest Conference rivals Darrin Campbell from George Fox University (19th- 181' 9") and Cody Wheeler from Whitworth University (22nd- 173' 0").

Wheaton College (Mass.) first-year Scott Sloan won the national title in the event with a winning toss of 223' 0". 

"I know Darius was disappointed with how today went but both of us are incredibly proud getting back to the national stage to cap off his career," said Head Coach Trey Henderson.

"He's been one of the most talented athletes to come through our program and has had to battle through ups and downs to finish his career back at nationals and full circle to the same location as when he was here as a freshman."

This was Chaffin's second trip to the NCAA Championships, earning All-American honors back in 2022 after finishing seventh overall. The senior closes his track & field career with the third best javelin throw in school history with a personal best of 211' 3" achived at the 2022 national meet.

"I'm excited to see what he does in his next chapter."