Boys’ indoor track is aiming to be competitive in a tough Patriot League.
There are some high hopes for the Whitman-Hanson Regional High boys’ indoor track team this winter.
“Our primary goal every season is to recruit new athletes, and to provide a rewarding and challenging program that will keep our veterans building on their previous experience,” said first-year boys’ indoor track head coach Stephen Schlicting, who is also the head coach of the boys’ outdoor track team.
“We hope to be competitive with the top teams in the Patriot League. I believe we have solid captains and veterans.”
Those captains are seniors Patrick Bui, Nick Hanley and Brandon Hager.
“[They’re] experienced leaders who know the are experienced leaders who know the sport and are committed to help this team get better,” Schlicting said. “They bring spirit and performances that will make us a better team. I believe we have a strong returning core of experienced track and field athletes.
Hager was a league all-star after excelling in the 1-mile run last season for the Panthers, who finished 2-3. He’ll be pushed by reigning Patriot League cross country MVP, junior Theo Kamperides, and juniors Liam Cafferty and Chris MacDonald and Hanley.
“We have solid depth from our distance group,” Schlicting said.
Bui is expected to score in the 300-meter dash, shot put and relays and will get a push in the 300 and relays by classmate Dyllan Burns. Sophomore Jake Caterer is the Panthers’ fastest 55-meter sprinter and will score in the high jump and long jump, according to Schilicting. Junior Graham Stewart will contribute in the hurdles, jumps and relays.
Schlicting said he wants to see his club get stronger.
“This means using the fitness room regularly and to be committed to core strength program,” said the coach. “I want the members to work together and push each other to become better athletes and young men.”
The Panthers return to action Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 3:45 p.m. at the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center against Hingham and Silver Lake.
“I want the new members to get comfortable, learn and communicate,” Schlicting said. “I want us to stay healthy and avoid injury. I want us to figure out what events each is best at and give each member the motivation to excel.”