The boys track and field team lost 72-54 to Notre Dame High School, and the girls team won 81-46, in its third league meet of the season, improving its overall record to 2-1. The squad won its first two meets of the 2021-2022 spring season against Chaminade High School on March 3 and Crespi Carmelite High School on March 10, winning 92-35 and 67-37, respectively.

Benson Fleischer ’23 won first place in  the 100-meter dash with a time of 11.33 seconds and in the 200-meter dash with a time of 22.99 seconds, beating Chaminade High School runners. Fleischer said although the team has room for improvement, the competition felt rewarding.

“[Chaminade High School and Crespi Carmelite High School] were not the strongest [opponents], and we have bigger challenges coming up,” Fleischer said. “It was great to compete after eight months of not competing.”

Fleischer said  a good start to the season motivated the team to work harder in practice in order to refine their technique as the season progresses.

“I am looking forward to seeing all the improvement around the program,” Fleischer said. “Putting in hard work and seeing numbers improve is a really fulfilling feeling and it is great to see my teammates improve.”

Distance runner Ariana Azarbal ’22 said the team’s collective effort impressed her. 

“I am in awe of everyone’s work ethic and commitment to being there for each other,” Azarbal said. “I see so many of my teammates dedicating themselves wholeheartedly to the sport, whether they are waking up at 5 a.m. to run six miles or taking every opportunity to encourage their teammates.”

Azarbal said the team’s supportive attitude contributes to athletes’ success in meets.

“I think [the program’s encouraging environment] is why the team is having so much success,” Azarbal said. “I hope the team can continue to become even closer off the track and achieve results they’re proud of on the track.”

Jesse Goldman ’23 won first place in shot put against Crespi Carmelite High School, throwing 51 feet, 1 inch, which was eight feet beyond any of his competitors. He said he aims to continue improving in preparation for more competitive meets in the future.

“I am looking forward to trying to improve throughout the whole season and making my season as long as possible,” Goldman said. “There are many things I need to improve this season, but the main one is improving mentally. It is very easy to get in your head when competing in large competitions.”

The team competes against St. Francis High School on March 24.