This year's track season was more than just mindlessly running circles on a track. It was a journey filled with perseverance, improvement, and plenty of twists and turns along the way. Whether it was the exciting nervousness during the Regionals meet or the uncertain determination of the State meet, this season was definitely one of the most unique track seasons our team has experienced.

One of the pivotal moments of the State meet for the boys 4x400 team was when sophomore runner Andrew Byrd recognized the weightiness of it all: “The hardest part of the season for me was on the day of the track meet,” he said. “ I was throwing up profusely all morning due to my nerves.” But Andrew didn’t let this bring him down, “Overcoming this obstacle before running multiple races was not easy, but I did it by focusing my thoughts on running the hardest I could rather than being nervous about what could happen.” Stories like Andrew’s aren’t uncommon in the world of track. Whether its grueling practices, or extra difficult race days, track is a sport about overcoming your individual pain for the sake of the team. 

As the season ends, many of the athletes are already looking forward to improving themselves even more for next year. The freshman discus thrower Gabriel Garcia, said “My goals for the team next year are to (hopefully) win the state championship, and my personal goals are to perfect my craft by continuing to throw discus even during the offseason, and to make it to the state meet next year.” 

Gabriel’s goal may seem a bit ambitious but it shows a common theme with the team's goals as well; to not only push themselves for a medal but to grow in character, discipline, and faith. For many on the team this season wasn’t just about being the fastest or beating Providence no matter what, but it was to honor God. No matter what happened during the season, if one of the teammates did something they shouldn’t have, hurting the whole team, or if people weren’t getting along, the team this year made it a point to push through because, in the end, it wasn’t all about them. 

This year’s track season may have made everyone faster and in better shape physically but it also shaped them spiritually. When the athletes pushed through frustrating setbacks, daunting competition, and all the while lifting one another up, they were doing more than just competing; they were shining a light. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” This verse was lived out this season on the track, on the field, and in the hearts of the these athletes.