FHS track hopes to continue tradition of excellence

By Kathy Domgard

After a second and third place finish at state for the 1996-97 track season, the Braves and Bravettes are optimistic about a successful season despite the loss of senior state champs last year due to graduation.

“The goal is always to place as high as possible at divisionals and at state,” said Brave track head coach Dan Hodge. “But the ultimate goal is for the athletes to have fun and enjoy track.”

The Braves track team ended last year’s season in second place at both state and divisionals. This year might be more difficult for the Braves due to the loss of three state champs last year, according to Hodge. 

“I have no points returning from state track meets this year,” said Hodge. “It’s going to be a year where we’re going to have to search for talent. It’s a good opportunity for newcomers because we have a lot of positions to fill this year.”

Despite the lack of big-point returners, Hodge remains optimistic about this season. Distance runners are predicted to have the strongest and most successful season because of the number of experienced returners, according to Hodge.

“We could have the best distance runners in the state,” said Hodge. “We have some talented distance runners.”

While the Braves are looking for new team leaders, the Bravettes have many state returners. Last year the Bravettes finished second at divisionals and third at state. Though five strong athletes graduated last year, McKay is confident for another solid season.

“I think that we will be in pretty good shape,” said Bravettes track Head-coach Joe McKay. “We have several state returners this year. We had 32 letter winners last year, which gives us a good nucleus to build around.”

Some senior track returners are excited for the season to start to improve their individual event, but also to cheer the rest of the team on.

“Last year I got second place in the javelin, so I’m really going to work hard to get first place this year. I want to do well this year and set the stage for college,” said senior Lindsay Hopkins. “I’m also really excited for everyone to do well this season. We have a really strong team this year because of the number of kids coming back with more experience.”

“My goal for this year is to get a personal best,” said senior Renee Aczas. “It’s not winning that I’m striving for, it’s mainly just improvement. I think that improvement is just as important as winning.”

A team’s success reflects on the coaches, according to Hodge.

“I truly believe that FHS undoubtedly has the greatest track coaches in the state,” said Hodge. “That’s one of the reasons for the team’s success, they are a major part of our success.”

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