As the end of the year comes closer and closer, track and field has returned to action. After their season was cut short last year due to the coronavirus pandemic, these athletes are ready to get back outside and compete. 

“I feel great about this season, trying to get my body in the healthiest position and looking forward to what the season holds, in addition to preparing myself for college,” senior Johnny Brackins said. 

The year of COVID-19 has been unusual and different for everyone. This is no different for the athletes in track and field.

“We have to wear masks and we have fewer meets which sucks,” junior Makenzie Luster said.

Although the season is happening, it is not coming without its fair share of challenges. For both athletes and coaches. 

“Our coaches have to record our training groups so that if anyone tests positive, they know who was in close contact with them,” senior Kate Wissel said.

Along with adjustments to the way each event is executed, masks are still a big factor in order to continue to have a safe season. 

“The rules for masks are that we have to warm up and keep them on until we are actually running. So at meets they can be removed while competing, but must be put back on once finished,” Brackins said.

Despite all these new changes, both the girls and the boys were able to have their track and field season. 

“My favorite part of track is building relationships with my teammates. We push each other to the limit at practice but, at the same time, everyone is incredibly encouraging and helpful. Learning from and getting to know these talented girls is a delight, and has been the best part of my experience,” Wissel said.

They are also excited to grow their bond with the rest of their teammates. The pandemic has brought them all closer together.

“I have grown closer to my teammates this season mainly through really tough practices and competing against each other. There is a mutual respect and admiration for one another that grows from those tough sets at practice where we are all suffering together. My teammates are fun and encouraging people who have made my experience to be wonderful so far,” Wissel said.

As the season goes on, and the athletes are introduced to the new rules of their COVID year, they have adapted to their new sense of normal.

“The differences this year are that we now wear masks while training, and in addition have to worry about contact tracing. Ultimately we have all instilled trust in each other that everyone will be safe and smart all season and not place the other athletes at risk,” Brackins said.

Overall, having a track and field season this year was a huge relief for both the school and the students.