Portola High School Track & Field 2024 Season Preview(CA)

As the track and field season begins at Portola High School, there is much excitement and anticipation for the success of both the men's and women's teams. Coach Cale Kavanaugh has high expectations for his team, with the goal of winning their third consecutive Pacific Coast League Title for the men's team and their second consecutive league title for the women's team. In this exclusive interview, Coach Kavanaugh shares his thoughts on the team, key players, challenges, and his coaching philosophy. First and foremost, Coach Kavanaugh's goals for the team this season are clear - to win the Pacific Coast League Title and make a strong showing at Orange County Championships and CIF. The men's team, specifically in the sprints, is looking to make it to state for the second time in the program's history, while the women's throwers are determined to make their first appearance at the state level. Coach Kavanaugh believes that the key to success is for the team to work together, stay focused, and never give up. One of the biggest strengths of the Portola High School track and field team is their talented and hardworking players. There are several top returning players from last season, including senior long jumper Jason Liu, who is a school record holder and defending league champion. Coach Kavanaugh describes Liu as someone who has truly embraced his own journey, putting in great work during the off-season and determined to have a "monster season" this year. Other standout players include junior Abbey Reichard, who excels in both the shot put and discus events, senior Rider Cooper, who is a defending county champion in the 400m, and junior Sophie Guilfoile, who was the PCL Cross Country Champion and CIF finalist last year. These players not only have impressive track records, but they also possess dedication, determination, and a strong work ethic, making them special and valuable assets to the team. Team chemistry and camaraderie are crucial for a successful season and Coach Kavanaugh has implemented strategies to bring the team together. He explains that the biggest challenge is getting position groups out of their "silos" and has been incorporating interdisciplinary warm-up activities to get athletes familiar with teammates from other disciplines. In addition, the team will be holding their first ever intrasquad meet, a new tradition that will foster a closer bond among team members.