LIMESTONE – A small but determined Eagle track squad used the 2011 spring season as an opportunity to gain valuable experience in the track and field arena.
Under the direction of first-year coach Marie Strouse, nearly all of the athletes were able to make positive gains in times, heights, and distances from the start of the season.
“This was a difficult year with the weather,” stated Strouse. “Getting in meets and practice was a lot of work. Fortunately, those kids who have been here consistently improved their fitness levels, and along the way have learned a lot about track.”
With only one key senior, the possibility for improved results next season is on everyone’s mind. Senior Jessica Luttrell was a valuable member of the squad for a lot of reasons. Besides keying on the 1,600 meter event, Luttrell was an important member of the relay teams.
“She is a real team player,” stated Strouse. “She did whatever I asked of her, and really led by example.”
The junior class was well represented and led by Jack Seguin. He was the County champion in the 110 hurdles, was second in the 300 hurdles and third in the long jump.
Junior James Lee competed primarily in the 1,600 and the 4×400 relay, and had his personal best times in the County Meet. James Jelin, another junior, also competed in the 1,600 meter as well as the 400 meter dash. Junior Maddie Blaisdell ran her best races in the 200-meter dash, and competed in some other sprinting events, depending on the meet.
In the sophomore class, Helen Roberts was the leading performer. As a distance runner, Roberts competed in both the 1,600-meter and 3,200-meter races. At the recent County meet, she impressively placed third in the 3,200 and sixth in the 1,600. Sophomore Brandon Phillips was the Limestone-MSSM squad’s top sprinter throughout the season. .
Lucy Wilcox, another sophomore, is a distance specialist. Unfortunately, she has battled injuries all spring and has really not performed up to the level she had hoped to.
Sophomore Klaas Pruismak also battled injuries this spring, but contined to work hard. Freshman Andrew Schade had his best meet of the year at the County meet, setting a personal best in the high jump while also competing in the discus and javelin.
