Bishop Conaty-Our Lady of Loretto Cross Country/Track & Field 2024 Season Preview(CA)

As the track and field season approaches, coaches and athletes at Bishop Conaty-Our Lady of Loretto in Los Angeles are gearing up for another exciting year. To get a preview of the team's expectations and goals for the upcoming season, we spoke with Coach Arnetta Williams, who shared insights on top returning athletes, new additions to the team, and challenges they face. One of the key strengths of Bishop Conaty-Our Lady of Loretto's team this year is their all-around athlete, Ashley Mendoza. She has proven herself to be a versatile and formidable competitor in multiple events. Sariyah Butler and Samantha Ayala, both exceptional sprinters, will also be returning to the team this year. But Coach Williams has high expectations for Jennifer Velasco as well, who she believes will be a strong contender in the 400 meters. With such a diverse and talented group of returning athletes, it's clear that Bishop Conaty-Our Lady of Loretto is ready to make a mark in their league. However, the team isn't just relying on their returning athletes. Coach Williams is also excited about the new additions joining the team this year. One of them is Naomi Papaqui, who may be new to track but is not new to running. As a cross country athlete for the past three years, Coach Williams believes she will bring a valuable perspective and expertise to the distance events. Another new athlete to watch out for is Yvette Alvarado, who will be bringing her speed from the basketball court to the track this year. And in the field events, Paulina Vidriales is expected to score points for the team. In addition to her athletes' physical abilities, Coach Williams also values strong leadership qualities in her team. The team captains, Jennifer Velasco and Naomi Papaqui, are chosen not only for their athletic abilities but also for their character. To Coach Williams, they are role models who are respected by their peers, teachers, and teammates. She expects them to be leaders on and off the track, always prioritizing their academic success before their athletic commitments. As the team prepares for the season, Coach Williams has a clear vision for building a strong and united team. This year, she plans on organizing more team outings outside of practice. Whether it's spending a day at the beach or going out for breakfast after a Saturday morning training, she wants to foster a sense of camaraderie and belonging among the team.