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Masuk High School Track and Field Excels at Hillhouse Invitational with Additional State Qualifiers
Staff Writer
Masuk High School's indoor track and field team burst onto the scene with a commanding presence at the Hillhouse Invitational this past Friday and Saturday. Under the leadership of Coach Sarah Barrett, the athletes delivered stellar performances, resulting in an impressive nine state qualifiers and setting the stage for a promising season ahead.
Taking 17 athletes to the meet, Masuk demonstrated the fruits of their offseason labor, as reflected in the multitude of personal bests achieved. Coach Barrett commended the team's work ethic, emphasizing the dedication and commitment that have been the driving forces behind their success.
Notable among Masuk's achievements was Tristan Smith's outstanding performance in the shot put, securing a commendable 6th place overall. Smith's success highlights the team's strength in field events and sets a high standard for future competitions.
The relay team composed of Aubrey Zvovushe-Ramos, Ella McGee, Erin Davis, and Ashley Goldberg showcased impeccable coordination in the 1600-meter relay, earning them an 8th-place finish overall. Their impressive teamwork not only demonstrated the depth of talent within Masuk's roster but also foreshadows strong relay performances throughout the season.
Ella McGee continued her standout performances, securing an 8th-place finish in the fiercely competitive 300-meter sprint. McGee's speed and determination make her a formidable force in individual events and contribute significantly to Masuk's overall team success.
In addition to these accomplishments, Masuk celebrated the success of Jackson Zylick, who qualified in the 55-meter sprint, and Kylie Hurme, who secured a qualification in the 300-meter sprint. Ashley Colberg added to the list of state qualifiers with her impressive performance in the 1600-meter run.
The 4x200 relay team, consisting of Colin Valle, Connor Fulchino, Max Viglione, and Jackson Zylick, added to Masuk's success by securing a state qualification in their event. The relay team's seamless exchanges and collective speed solidify their position as a force to be reckoned with in relay competitions.
Coach Sarah Barrett expressed her excitement about the team's performance at the Hillhouse Invitational and looks forward to the next two weeks of training in preparation for the first full team meet, the SWC Developmental on January 6th at Bethel High School. As Masuk's athletes continue to shine and exceed expectations, the team is poised for continued success throughout the indoor track and field season.
Stratford High School Indoor Track Gears Up for a Dynamic Season
Staff Writer
As the winter season approaches, the Stratford High School Indoor Track team is gearing up for
an exciting campaign in the SWC. Competing in a highly competitive league is not easy but this
group is determined to leave their mark on both the SWC championships and the State Class L
tournament. Led by Senior Captains Zachery Rider, Angelina Taccogna, and Isabella Pato,
along with the seasoned experience of seniors Hasan McGee, Johan Delorbe, Niyah Lewis, and
Jaylen Evans, the team boasts a blend of leadership and talent. The squad is also welcoming
new faces, with noteworthy newcomers adding depth to their roster. This mix of experience and
fresh energy sets the stage for an exciting season as the team pursues their goals and
aspirations in the upcoming indoor track competitions.
The team employs an efficient practice model focused on building intensity in workouts. With
strengths in both sprinting and jumping, they plan to leverage a group of very athletic kids
strategically to score points during competitions. In the SWC, every meet poses a significant
challenge. The league's intensity promises tough competition at every turn, making each
matchup a key test for the team.
Senior leadership plays a pivotal role in the team's development, with returners like Ryder,
Taccogna and Pato taking the lead in mentoring younger runners. This mentorship is crucial,
especially for those who are new to the sport of track.
Coach Brennan Fraczek describes his new team as a competitive yet close-knit group, who
foster an environment where runners challenge each other to improve and hold themselves
accountable for attendance and performance. This camaraderie is a strength that Fraczek
believes will likely propel the team forward.
Anticipated challenges include the lack of a dedicated track for practice. Most other high schools
in the state can practice on their outdoor track when the weather cooperates. Stratford High
sadly does not have a track of their own and despite this obstacle, the runners demonstrate
resilience by using whatever resources are available to them to prepare for the season, without
complaints. They are just happy to be together working to get better. This includes even
running in the halls of the school after dismissal.
All indoor league meets will be held at the indoor track facility in Bethel. Fans would be a
welcome sight. Additionally, the team actively engages with fans on Instagram, providing
updates and fostering a sense of community
Beyond the track, the team is not only focused on athletic success but also on giving back to the
community. They plan to raise funds to support Toys for Tots this holiday season, showcasing
their commitment to making a positive impact beyond the competition.
As the Stratford High School Indoor Track team embarks on this new season, fans can expect a
thrilling journey filled with dedication, teamwork, and impressive performances on and off the
track. Stay tuned for updates as the team strives for success in the upcoming meets.
Masuk Track and Field: Sprinting Towards Success in the Upcoming Season
Staff Writer
Masuk High School's Track and Field team, known for its outstanding achievements, is gearing up for an exciting season in the South-West Conference (SWC). In the state tournament this year the boys will be competing in Class M and the girls will be in Class L. Led by key returning players such as Ella McGee, Tristan Smith, and Ashley Colberg, the team is set to showcase a blend of experience and talent. Notably, the addition of newcomer Brayden Hershberger, a standout middle-distance runner, adds a promising dynamic to the lineup.
The team's primary goals for the upcoming season revolve around achieving personal bests, fostering individual improvement, and collectively becoming a stronger team. The Panthers are determined to qualify for the conference and state championships, with aspirations to advance to the State Open and New England Championships.
Dedicated to their training and competition preparation, the team emphasizes hard work and perseverance in all weather conditions. With a diverse group of over 70 athletes, the camaraderie and chemistry among the team members contribute to a positive training environment. Team-building activities, such as team dinners before meets, aim to enhance unity and celebrate the collective effort.
As with many high schools, who do not have an indoor track on campus, weather poses a challenge, but the team remains flexible and adaptive in their training plans. The coaches are prepared to overcome weather-related obstacles, ensuring optimal training opportunities for all athletes.
While fan and community engagement initiatives are yet to be implemented, the team looks forward to the support of the local community throughout the season. The captains, including Anastasia Tsichlas, Ashley Colberg, Erin Davis, Cadence Fideli, Colin Valle, Ethan Palmich, and Kendyl Roelofsen, lead the team with their experience and commitment.
As the season unfolds, Masuk Track and Field is poised for success, ready to make strides towards personal and team achievements. The athletes, coaches, and community eagerly anticipate the thrilling performances that lie ahead.