The indoor 4x2 can be a cluster. The smaller indoor track and high-speed handoffs can wreak havoc. We have been very fortunate all season to have clean races. Jack Maas ran a strong leadoff leg, but we handed off in third place. Every subsequent handoff was exchanged in lane 5 or outside. Ben Ketza had a trip up with Chicago Kenwood and was fortunate to keep his balance. Despite the unfortunate circumstances, the team still ran very strong and placed 4th overall in 3A. We finish Indoor season with the Indoor School Record and the #8 Indoor 4x2 time in 3A. Not bad for a school that practices in a hallway. This is only the beginning...
Rinse-Repeat from the 4x2 race... Going against some of the best competition in the state isn't easy. Our two best 400 runners, Anthony Vassolo and Jack Maas, ran subpar splits due to having to veer all the way out to lane 6 in the 4x4. However, our two juniors, Nick Smith (53.5) and Mike Barberi (52.3) both had big PRs to finish the race. All four runners ran with everything they had. 3:32.73 is good for #14 in 3A. If we add up our best splits, it would look like this:
Vassolo 52.4 (Leadoff at SWSC)
Maas 52.4 (2-leg at SWSC)
Smith 53.5 (3-leg at Top Times)
Barberi 52.2 (Anchor at Top Times)
3:30.74c
We are excited for outdoor season!
Anthony Vassolo 400 progression is something to behold...
Freshman: 62.33
Sophomore: 61.84
Junior: 54.26
Senior: 52.85
Senior Outdoor: ???
This progression is a testament to the dedication and work that Anthony has put into the sport. The Valporasio commit is a senior leader and never hesitates when asked to do a tough assignment. Anthony has run multiple 800's this indoor season, as well as doubling 400/4x4 in almost every meet. The Tough Guy Award was meant for Anthony Vassolo. I can't wait to see what he accomplishes this outdoor season.