UGA track and field freshman recovering after javelin accident

ATHENS, Ga. (FOX 5 Atlanta) - A University of Georgia track and field freshman is recovering after an accidental injury on Tuesday.

Elija Godwin, a sprinter from Covington, Georgia, was injured when he backed into a stationary javelin that was implanted in the ground, according to UGA athletic officials.

Godwin was rushed to Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center, where he underwent surgery. He was listed in stable condition Wednesday and is expected to make a full recovery.

“We would like to express appreciation for all those who acted so quickly and efficiently in coming to the aid of Elija,” said UGA Director of Sports Medicine Ron Courson. “Special thanks to our sports medicine staff, UGA Police Department, Athens-Clarke County Fire-Rescue, National EMS, and Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center.”

Godwin could be seen regularly on HIGH 5 Sports playing as a safety for the Newton Rams football team until he graduated in 2018. He was a three-star football prospect as a defensive back, holding seven offers from schools such as Virginia, Miami-Ohio, Ball State, and Central Michigan.

But Godwin also was blessed in track and field, helping the Rams claim their first team state crown in the sport since 2016. He was named the 2016-17 Gatorade Men’s High School Track Athlete of the Year.

Godwin chose UGA for track and field and immediately excelled. In March, he was named the SEC Freshman of the Week following his performance at the Yellow Jacket Invitational.

No word on when Goodwin will be released from the hospital.