LAST YEAR: The Rockets finished 1-4 in conference dual meets and placed fifth in the O-K Green. The highlight of the postseason was the performance of freshman Raquel Walker, who finished third in the long jump at the Division 1 state finals (behind two seniors), earned All-State honors, and set a new school record in the event with a jump of 18 feet, 7 inches.
RETURNING TO THE TEAM: Walker is back as a sophomore and her coaches say the goal is to win a state championship in the long jump. Another key athlete will be senior Jersi Bilek, who specializes in the 800-meter run (narrowly missed a school record in that event last year) and also competes in several other events. Sophomore Addison Mitchelson will be a strong contender in the 100-meter and 200-meter dash and a key member of the relay teams. Sophomore Ivanna Kass will compete in the 200-meter and 400-meter and will also be a key relay team member. Junior Zaire Wright and senior Sophia Wathen have been developing their skills in discus and shot put.
TEAM STRENGTHS/CHALLENGES: Head coach Parker Aerts points to the fact that the team is heavy in freshmen and sophomores, which he says presents challenges and opportunities. He says the athletes need to gain experience and listen more closely to their coaches, but they also have lots of time to develop their skills.
FIRST COMPETITION: Wednesday at Whitehall.
COACH QUOTES: “The big challenge is going to be a lack of depth in various events. Who’s going to step up and score points in the field events?” – Parker Aerts