For the Polytechnic Panthers, the track and field season was a roller coaster of emotions. Coach Dwayne Miller, coach Will Mason and the athletes faced numerous obstacles throughout the season, finishing in last place in the Prep league. Despite this, the team remained positive and forged a strong foundation for the future.
With relatively low numbers compared to other teams in their conference, the Panthers faced an uphill battle from the start.
Mason acknowledged their difficulties, stating, “It was a tough season. We had low numbers in terms of both teams, and as the season progressed, we faced inclement weather and had athletes with other obligations, resulting in significant losses.”
Despite these setbacks, the team showed promise early on, winning their first meet of the season. The team consisted of a well-balanced mix of underclassmen and upperclassmen, all of whom exhibited tremendous progress throughout the year.
“We may not have had the numbers to truly compete and place, but we saw significant development in each athlete,” Mason said. “This season provided us with a platform to build upon, and we have a bright future ahead.”
One of Poly’s strengths was the camaraderie and positive energy among the athletes.
“A lot of the kids got along with each other, and there was a lot of positive energy on the team,” said Mason. “By the end of the season, everybody got along, and there wasn’t anyone sitting alone. There was a lot of team support.” This unity undoubtedly contributed to the athletes’ resilience in the face of challenges.
While winning was important, the team’s focus extended beyond rankings.
Mason stressed the value of personal growth: “We want everybody to compete and do their best, even if they aren’t winning. We also wanted to instill in the players respect for each other and other competitors because those things also translate outside of the track. It’s not necessarily about the end result; rather, did you put in your best effort?” This philosophy encouraged the athletes to strive for excellence both on and off the track.
As the track and field season comes to a close, Mason and the team are already looking ahead to the future. Despite the challenges faced this year, they remain determined and optimistic. With a strong foundation established and valuable lessons learned, the team is poised for success in the upcoming seasons.
The Panthers’ journey this year serves as a reminder that victories aren’t always measured by first-place finishes. The athletes’ dedication, growth and spirit represent achievements in themselves. As they prepare for next year, the team is ready to put their best foot forward.
