With a brand new track and new team sweats, Maverick esprit de corp is stronger than ever this year. Track competitions begin next week when the Mavericks travel to Paola. This season promises to be intense as coaches juggle a large number of participants and student-athletes push one another to perform their best.

According to SHMS boys’ head track coach Dalton Maples, there are 105 students out for track. Coaching that many students required more coaches, which in turn enabled a breakdown into specialty coaching: Mr. Carpenter will coach Pole Vault; Mr. Pope will coach the throwing events: Shotput and Discus; Mrs. Thimesch is coaching both high jump and long jump; Ms. Woodward - SHMS girls’ head track coach - is coaching hurdles and distance running; and Mr. Maples is coaching sprints and relays.

Season meets are as follows:

• Tuesday, April 4th @ Paola

• Tuesday, April 11th @ Pioneer Ridge

• Tuesday, April 18th @ Baldwin

• Tuesday, April 25th @ Ottawa

• Thursday, April 27th @ Wellsville Relays (Meet for special relays & field events only - Top 3 qualifying individuals)

• Tuesday, May 2nd @ SHMS

• Saturday, May 6th @ Eudora (League Championships, Top 3 qualifying individuals)

Overall, the coaches feel the season is looking great, with a large number of 8th graders out for track. They are excited to see how kids compete and the improvements they make throughout the season. Be sure to come out and show your support for the Mavericks!