Standing on the track, behind the blocks, switching between stretching and chatting with the coach before a race, athletes can feel overwhelmed. Of course, in any sport, this feeling is real. According to Freshman Deshaun Ferguson, adjusting to track and field life can be very fun but also tedious.
Ferguson said, “On our Track Team, hard work is crucial. Everyone will have a different routine and experience depending on the events they participate in.” In the past, Ferguson has run the 100 and 200 meter dash and hopes to thrive doing so again this season. His advice to newcomers is, “Practice hard, and go full out during your race.”
The UC High Track Team has been very successful over the years. Track and Field Coach John Hutsel has been coaching the high school team for over 40 years. His main motivation has been the honor of getting to witness his athletes grow into amazing adults. “Anyone who wants to join should just go for it,” he believes. “Expect to work hard out on the field, because it is something that builds from a foundation with everyone competing,” said Hutsel.
Team members on the Centurion Track Team have expressed that Hutsel is a positive and supportive coach. Freshman Jaylin Lily-Marrujo said, “He pushes us to be greater and successful out on the track and field.”
Track and field does not only include running events, but many students also participate in fielding events. Senior Kianna Lefear said, “I started freshman year and I really enjoyed it.” Lefear throws shot put on the track team and has been loyal to the team for four consecutive years. Her long-term goal this upcoming season is to make it to CIFs. According to Lefear, the practices are all about technique and patience. Her best advice is to “try your best” in every event.
Another great athlete on the Centurion Track Team is Sophomore Jrue Frazier, who runs the 100 meter and is on the relay team. Frazier said, “My goal is to beat my PR [personal record] from last year.” Frazier will be entering his second year on the track.
On the UC High Track Team, athletes are given the opportunity to try out for junior varsity or varsity. Lily-Marrujo’s aspiration is to run for varsity as a freshman, with his miraculous speed and continuing growth as an athlete daily.
A lot of the returners set a goal for themselves to boost motivation and maintain focus. These goals frequently help improve their track performance, help them stay consistent with training, and help build confidence. In addition, effective goal setting for young athletes is essential. According to Product Plan, “Using the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound), young athletes should set process-oriented goals that increase motivation and provide daily direction” (productplan.com).