With the postseason approaching, the track team is entering a crucial stretch of the season. Athletes are preparing to compete at the district meet on Apr. 8-9 in Paris Tx, followed by the area meet on Apr. 16 in Wills Point Tx. Those who advance will continue to regionals on May 1-2 at East Texas A&M, Commerce Tx, with the ultimate goal of reaching the state meet on May 14-16 at University of Texas, Austin Tx.

The track team is still working to find the best fit for each athlete as competitions get closer. “I run the 4×4 and I’m going to ask Coach Darby if I can try out for the 200 and 4×2,” junior Ethan Singleton said. “Right now we are in a sort of trial phase; Coach Darby is switching out athletes between different events to see who is capable of doing what.”

Ethan thinks the team has a strong chance at advancing a long way, especially in relays and individual events. “As far as relays, I think we have a shot at the area meet,” Ethan said. “In individual events, I think we could take a good handful to state, especially in the sprints and field events.”

Training has also been a huge factor as track prepares for the district meet. “We are doing a lot of short, but effective runs,” sophomore Josh Powell said. “During practice, we’ll run a couple 200’s, which is not as much as people would normally think a track practice consists of, but it’s because the body can’t process an overload of strain.”

Josh, who runs the 4×1, 4×2, and 4×4 relays, says the team’s strategy is paying off. “With only doing a couple 200’s, we put out maximum effort without the withdrawals. That’s what most of our training looks like,” Josh said. “I think track will go all the way to state this year— our varsity relay is really good.”

As the team heads into district competition, athletes and coaches are focused on perfecting their performance and building momentum. With strong training, versatile athletes, and confidence across the whole team, this year’s track team is aiming to have a sensational season.