Last week, the Track and Field season officially started up again. The sport, which spans such events as running, throwing, jumping, pole vaulting and more, also gained a significant amount of new people.

The athletes have been preparing for the meets in practice by weightlifting, organizing lineups, practicing techniques and running drills.

They also kept up with weightlifting during the off season.

“I’m really excited to start track because I enjoy how much fun it is to be together with a team that is so diverse,” said Lily Schumacher, a pole vaulter who was in Track last year. “There isn’t really a specific group that’s in it, and because there are so many different events, there’s something for everyone.”

Sophomores Emily Agen and Hannah Ciriacks agreed that the camaraderie of the team was truly what made Track special.

“It’s really fun and it’s a great group of people that participate,” said Ciriacks.

The team practices for several hours every day after school, even on Fridays.

“It’s definitely a lot of work and a big commitment,” said Schumacher. “But it all pays off in the meets.”

The first track meet takes place this week: Wednesday for the girls, Thursday for the boys. It takes place at Preble High School.

“I’m most looking forward to the meets,” said Agen. “They’re really fun and it’s nice to cheer everyone on.”

Many players set goals for themselves, as well, that they hope to achieve by the end of the season.

Schumacher, a sophomore, hopes to set a personal record in pole vault.

“There’s something really special about doing something you didn’t think you’d achieve, and then preparing to beat it again,” Schumacher explained.

“I’m looking forward to the Sheboygan meet,” said Ciriacks, “when the donut truck is there.”

Whatever the players’ motivation, all the members of the track team are excited for their season to truly begin.