Although there are many unique options for extracurricular activities available for students to participate in during the second semester of the school year, none seem to be more popular than Boys and Girls Track and Field. Spanning from January to May, the sport seems to have something for everyone; from the 3200 meter run to 100 meter dash to the high jump, anyone can join track and have an event that is unique to them and their abilities. However, behind the long early morning bus rides and carpools with teammates after the meets, is a sport that’s the perfect blend of individuality and teamwork.

While track on the surface may not appear to be any more special than any other sport, the lessons that it teaches the athletes is unlike anything else. Whether you’re running down state to win the Friars a day off, or you’re just doing this for fun, you’re going to learn firsthand what it feels like to succeed, to fail, and most importantly, to work hard. “My favorite aspect of track is the self improvement” said senior Marek Hill. “Being on a team with like-minded people who just want to get better, makes you better. When you run against people faster than you, you’re bettering yourself. You don’t get the aspect of bettering yourself for others as much as in other sports.” As you can see, even when you’re competing in an individual event, you still need teamwork and comradeship to improve and become the best version of yourself.

Not only is competing in track and field great for your physical and mental improvement, but it can also help greatly with your social life. Senior distance runner Nate McKillop says, “The thing I am most proud of as a runner at Fenwick are the friends that I made along the way. These friendships last past Fenwick for a lifetime, and these guys are always here for you through thick and thin.” Speaking from experience as someone who has ran distance track for Fenwick for two years (and will continue to run for another two years), I can say with confidence that I will walk out of high school not only with more friends, but I’ll walk out a better person because of the lessons that track has taught me. Through all of the sweat and tears that I have shed because of this sport, no accomplishment on the track can compare to the accomplishments that I’ve made for myself because of this sport.

Looking at this season, the boys and the girls respectively are doing great things as they say goodbye to another group of seniors. We’re in the peak of the outdoor season, and the teams have a loaded schedule of meets and practices with the goal of once again traveling down state for an opportunity to win the state championship. The future is looking bright for both teams, as the underclass men show lots of promise to continue the excellent legacy that this team has. These next few years are going to be very exciting for Fenwick track and field, and one that everyone should keep their eyes on!