Cross Country/Track & Field
Boomer Elmsdale
Tue, February 20, 2024 at 04:02 AM
The Bishop Conaty- Our Lady of Loretto High School track team is gearing up for another exciting season under the guidance of Coach Arnetta Williams. With a strong core of returning players and some talented newcomers, the team is poised to make an impact in their new league. In this article, we will take a closer look at the team and their goals for the season. Coach Williams has set her goals high for the team this year – to win their new league and to qualify as many athletes as possible for the state championship. She believes that the key to success lies in a combination of hard work, commitment and teamwork. The team has been training hard, both on and off the track, with a focus on building their strength and endurance. When asked about the top returning players from last season, Coach Williams was quick to mention Ashley Mendoza, Sariyah Butler, Samantha Ayala, and Jennifer Velasco. All four are standout athletes in their respective events, known for their hard work and determination. Ashley Mendoza is praised for her versatility as an all-around athlete, while Sariyah Butler and Samantha Ayala bring their speed and agility to the sprinting events. Jennifer Velasco, a top performer in the 400 meters, is expected to continue her dominance in the event this season. However, the team also has some promising new additions that are set to make an immediate impact. Naomi Papaqui, a transfer student, may be new to track but she brings with her a wealth of experience from running cross country for the past 3 years. Yvette Alvarado, who previously played basketball, will also be lending her speed to the track team. Coach Williams is also excited about Paulina Vidriales, who she believes will contribute points in the field events. When it comes to choosing team captains, Coach Williams doesn't just look at athletic ability. She values qualities such as leadership, respect from peers, and academic excellence. This year, team captains Jennifer Velasco and Naomi Papaqui have all these qualities and are expected to lead by example both on and off the track. Team chemistry and camaraderie are crucial for success in any sport, and this season Coach Williams plans to foster a stronger team bond by organizing more team outings and activities. This will help the freshmen feel more welcomed and integrated into the team.