In Colonie High
School, it seems students are intimidated by the boys and girls Track and Field
team. Most do not want to participate on the team because they feel they will
not be good enough. It may not be the easiest sport, but anyone can
participate.
The
Colonie Track and Field team has always had high standards. They have had state
champions and even national champions. That is why most feel so intimidated.
There are also many people on the team who are not state or national champions.
But they still run. They run to better themselves and just to have fun.
“I don’t
understand why so many people are intimidated,” said Mikeisha Kelly, a
sophomore sprinter. “Our whole team is a family, no matter who you are.”
According
to the student athletes, they do not judge anyone. They all help each other
achieve their own goals. They cheer each other on through tough workouts and
cheer each other on at meets as well. Students should not feel intimidated by
the track team. Yes, they have great runners, but people who just like to run
for fun can join as well. Not everyone has to be competitive.
“Our
team has different ability levels,” said Coach Ferrari. “We give each athlete
the same amount of attention.”
According
to the coaches, no one is left behind. They do not give the ‘better’ athletes
more attention. Everyone runs the exact same workout at the exact same time.
The runners may be given different goal times to hit, based on their ability,
but for the most part, they are always together.
Track and Field is
not a sport you have to try out for. Once you sign up, you automatically make
the team. It is one of the only sports where there is no limitation on how many
athletes participate. You can join just to run for fun or you can join to
compete.
