Track and field team sprints to success

It was a year of learning and success for the middle school track and field team this spring. The team not only has eighth graders with experience in several events, but it also has some experienced seventh graders on the team. To add to this experience, the middle school team practiced with the high school this year giving them role models and additional coaches to work with. With experienced runners on both teams, it made for a very successful track season.

The team has had four meets this year and the eagles usually have the most individual wins out of all the schools. The athletes could choose up to five events that they were best at, but most people were likely to choose three. The team had many experienced athletes that were focused on winning and doing their best.

The team was very friendly with all the other teams at the meets, and would even cheer on friends in races from different schools.  Seventh grader Gigi Berchem, an experienced 100 meter sprinter, said, “There was always a good feel at the track meets.” Even though there was a friendly feeling at the meets, every member of the team was focused on their personal best.

Although there isn’t an overall winner at these meets, most of the athletes strived to win their heats or races, and felt strong about their times. Winning is important to the team, but it seemed like personal growth was an achievement every athlete was proud of. Teachers such as Mr. Ryan Steege and Mr. Stephen Fordham were always there to help students improve and give great feedback during their races. Eighth-grader Alastair Clase Schenkel said, “Mr. Steege’s coaching helped me fly over hurdles like a majestic butterfly.” Although Alastair’s statement may be a little exaggerated, coach Fordham felt like “the team was improving as a whole.”

The athletes not only had fun competing but also had a great time with their teammates on the bus. “On both the track and the bus it was a great time to bond with seventh graders that I usually wouldn’t,” said eighth-grade track member Sophia Lebbar.

Overall, this was a great season for the middle school track team. The whole team grew together with their times, and the new friendships they made. The middle school adjusted well to practicing with the high school and had a successful season to remember.

About Russell Cornelius ('20)

Staff Writer

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