With just days left of their season, the Lady Gales track team won the Ohio Capital Conference Championship for the third year in a row. They are expecting to progress through tournament competition even after the school year has ended for LHS students. Some seniors said that because it is their final high school season, every sprint, throw, and jump carries more weight than ever. LHS senior Aubree Beery explained that she will never forget her experience in track during her high school career.
“Something I will always remember about throwing is the lessons I’ve received from it. It has taught me to never give up on myself and always work hard towards a goal that seems impossible. Which is an important lesson I have had to learn, taking on the leadership role for the throws. Whether it’s teaching the younger girls how to throw or making connections with each girl on the team, it is something I will never forget,” she said.
LHS senior Ava Parret agreed with Beery and described what she will miss and cherish the most.
“One thing I will always remember is what surrounding yourself with the right people can do for you. I never expected myself to be a distance runner but my coaches and teammates encouraged me through the whole process and I wouldn’t change anything. I found something that I really love and made great friends too,” she said.
LHS English teacher and head coach of the Lady Gales track team, Dianna Galadyk, shared how she feels about her seniors.
“This group of seniors has always been very mature and committed. They have developed athletically, but more importantly, they have developed in their commitment to the team. In the beginning, they were committed to the sport. Throughout the seasons, they grew to know each other and the other events. They were able to learn how to compete as a team instead of as an individual,” she said.
Seniors have faced many difficulties this season, especially the weather.
“A challenge for the team as a whole has been the weather conditions. It seems every meet it will pour down rain, storm, be freezing temperatures, and be very windy, which isn’t great conditions to be running, throwing, vaulting, or jumping in. But as a team, we have taken this as an advantage to be our best no matter the conditions,” said Beery.
Parrot said that one of the challenges of the season was team dynamics.
“The most challenging parts have been trying to help others understand that this is a team sport and how we all need to support each other. It can be tough watching others focus only on themselves, but it really brings out the teammates that truly want the best for not only themselves but the entire team,” she said.
The track team’s successful record is not by accident. They have had many positive experiences, such as setting personal records and college signings.
“My season this year has been one of the best. I signed with Ohio University to compete on their track and field team. Another positive is that as a team, we won our home varsity meet by twenty points, which at a high-stakes meet is unheard of. A negative to this season has been the banning of the hammer throw. Unfortunately, we are not able to throw a hammer, as it has allowed many throwers from Lancaster and Ohio to compete at the next level,” said Beery.
Coach G. said that she is proud of her team’s accomplishments and that the seniors contributed by demonstrating a positive attitude and leadership.
“I have the most amazing group of seniors who lead by example. They are the most laid-back group I have ever had, and they are deeply dedicated to their team and their teammates,” she said.
