By Denzel Rustempasic
No other sport attacks an athlete’s nerves as much as track does. In football, a player might be told to hit harder. In basketball, they might be told to box out with more force. But in track, every action and movement one makes is recorded. Track is very individualized, which makes competition nerve-wracking, but also makes success glorious. The individual is measured by how much they improve, forcing them into a constant war with their previous best. This struggle is what pushes track athletes to be their best, and their improvement is measured with each passing meet.
Despite a slight drop in team members since last year, head Coach Mrs. Brittain was adamant that this season has been a success so far and that this year’s team has potential to perform very well at state. She remarked, “With smaller numbers, more effort is needed.” She continued to praise those who have risen above and beyond what was originally expected of them.
Connor Woltz is currently first in State Div IV in the 110m hurdles. Rachel Matsumoto is holding the first spot in the girls 800m with a time of 2:26. Catherine Bryant is currently second in the state in the 100m hurdles, long jump, and the triple jump. In addition to these great performances, freshman Katherine Camberg is TPA’s first female pole-vaulter and is currently tied for third in the state and it is only her first season with the team. In addition, we have several other athletes who are currently ranked in the top five in their respective events.
Coach Brittain also remarked that the team has been full of nothing but great attitudes and support each other very well. “Spring is a hard time” she states. “You have the senior trip, the play, thesis defenses and everyone’s moving in a million directions.” Despite this being the most hectic time of the year, she praised her team for remaining focused. Coach Brittain was proud to announce that the team has had a burst in younger members who are equally dedicated to their own progress.
Sophomore Herman Flores shares about his rewarding experience with the team: “At the start of the season coaches demanded courage to finish the first two weeks of strength training. Going to A-Mountain almost every day and suffering with your team. It was strenuous, but in the end it was worth it!” He also stated, “Don’t ever be afraid of pain, it’s only temporary,” encouraging the younger members of the team to remain disciplined and focused.
Varsity track member Rebecca Knebelsberger says, “The track season is going great so far, I feel like everyone is getting much better and bonding in the process. I can’t wait for us to win state with our tight-knit team!” This season’s team embraces their small numbers, and uses their size as a source of motivation.
Everyone, from head Coach Brittain to the newly committed freshmen, have complete faith in their team’s ability to rival anyone in the state. They are fully committed to pushing themselves and each other forward, proving strength can come from numbers, but true strength comes from unity.
The State Track and Field Championships will be held on May 8-9 at Mesa Community College and we want to encourage everyone to come cheer on the 25 track athletes who will compete at the state meet.
