Clements boys and girls track has come back stronger than ever this year as they work harder and continue training to race to the top in districts and prepare for the upcoming season. During  tiring, daily practices and competitive, weekly meets, which take place Thursdays and Fridays, the team is proving to have much potential and hunger to win to succeed this 2017 season.

Great amounts of preparation has gone into this season over the past year, which includes off season, weight lifting and training, and workouts to strengthen sprinting speeds. The track team works tirelessly to achieve their goals of improving their skills and running faster.

The track program has gone through many changes and adjustments to adapt to, such as new coaching and new, improved, and rigorous workouts that are tailored specifically to the athletes event. With these new coaches, the team is sure to go the distance: Chris Simmons who manages girls sprints, Phillip Dober takes charge of hurdles, Chelsea Johnson manages long distance, Darin Humes with boys sprints, and Justin Hughes with throwing. Track also has John Damon and Gregory Hein as the two head coaches for boys and girls who are sure to bring the team to victory.

While the adjustment with a new coaching staff was challenging in the beginning, the athletes are becoming more comfortable with their coaches during practices and meets where they’re able to spend a lot of time with everyone in the program.

The team has many advantages and aspects that’ll help Clements win and stand out against the other opponents this year.

“We’re very spirited and close to each other. We always cheer each other on, so that pushes us to work harder. Within the team, it’s friendly competition which also helps us to push harder,” Bianca Tan said, a senior and valuable player since sophomore year.

Not only has the team improved greatly with their stronger runners and all-around better varsity team since last season, but this year there is a better chance at defeating track’s all time rivals, Hightower and Marshall high schools, especially after their recent win placing 1st in the 4 by 1 at an early season meet.

Many aspects of Clements track sets the team apart from other teams like determination, hard work, and teamwork. These will ultimately allow the girls and boys to easily make an impression on the track and succeed in districts this season.

“Our bond within the team is strong. We all get together because we’re not separated between underclassmen here and upperclassmen there. By the time the meets come we’re all cheering each other on no matter who you are and what grade you’re in. We’re just really open to everyone.” Tan said.