The melting snow is a clear sign of the coming of Spring, which also means the start of Spring sports at Orchard Park High School. Many teams and athletes are excited for the upcoming 2025 season, especially the outdoor track team, which has been Section Champs for several years in a row, and they hope to continue their winning streak this season. Many seniors are hoping to have a great last season, as this is the final lap of their high school athletic careers–the last chance to make lasting memories, break personal records, and leave a legacy. But the track season is not just about winning races; it’s about cherishing friendships, growth, and the journey.
Senior girls shared their excitement for the season:
“I’m looking forward to my final season in track!” said Samantha Qualey, one of the team captains last year. “I can’t wait to run with all of my friends, and I feel like this is going to be great!” Samantha also has hopes of going to States this year and getting a new personal record in her favorite event, 100m Hurdles.
Emma Messina also hopes to set new personal records in any of her events, but she especially wants to create lasting memories with her friends before they graduate.
“I can’t wait to do track again this year; it gives me so much joy, and I love being at the meets with all of my friends, and I love competing!” said Messina.
For senior jumper Lauren Hagen, this season feels both exciting and bittersweet.
“I’ve been on the track team since eighth grade, and it’s crazy to think this is my last season,” said Hagen. “I’m looking forward to everything, but there’s definitely a part of me that doesn’t want to say goodbye.” There’s no doubt that Lauren is excited for the start of a new season, but it always comes with some sadness knowing that this may be the last time to leave a mark before the seniors move on in their lives to achieve many more amazing things.
Best of luck to this year’s track and field team, especially to the amazing seniors who fans have had the pleasure of cheering on over these past 4 years.
