Track aims to foster younger athletes

The girls' track team recently faced off against Milpitas in its third meet of the season on March 21. Although the team lost, senior Maya Nag placed first in both the 1600m race and 3200m race with times of 5:41.09 and 12:26.71, respectively. In addition, senior Jennifer Jin placed first in the 100m hurdles race with a time of 17.75. 

“We competed really well,” coach Archie Ljepava said. “We were overwhelmed because the other team was older and we have a younger team, but we’re learning what high school track is about.”

New coaching methods have been successful in yielding impressive results so far, according to Nag. The girls’ long distance team has also been focusing more on well-rounded fitness by incorporating weekly weight training into practices. 

“We’re training our core and upper body,” Nag said. “I can see my performance improving from last year. The weight lifting really helps and is a good implementation for an overall better performance compared to last year.”

With approximately 80 sophomores enrolled in track this year, underclassmen have become key to the team’s development. 

Senior distance runner Emma Lee sees potential in the numerous new players that have joined track this year.

“I feel like we have a lot of raw talent, but all the girls are working really hard and everyone has a great attitude.” Lee said. “This season has been good in that everyone tries to foster team spirit and we’ll definitely continue to improve as the season progresses.”

Prior to the meet with Milpitas, the team competed in the St. Francis Invitational on March 16. During the meet, Nag placed second in both the 800m and 1600m races with times of 2:34.60 and 5:35.94, respectively.   

Ljepava is aiming to improve scores and ranks.

“We try keeping a positive mindset,” Ljepava said. “Although we work everybody really hard and expect a lot out of them, we try to stay positive all the while.”

The team squared off Los Altos on April 4.