The West Albany High School track and field program has experienced rapid growth, increasing from 40 to over 100 participants. Coaches this year have been more persistent in ensuring new participants understand the independent nature of their training and the benefits of individual growth.
“You get out of training what you put in,” explains Coach Bryan Wadlow, “[Athletes] usually are in good condition, so it builds a nucleus. It’s exciting and kind of team-driven. So I think having a culture built around a team that looks forward to the four-by-four is pretty great.”
Looking forward to next year, Wadlow looks for the better condition of his athletes, having them understand the team structure, and how it will help win another state championship. “But I also think it’s looked upon favorably by the kids that have been involved and they tell their friends, it’s a good place to come. Hopefully, we just continue to see that number grow,” said Wadlow.
Through this hard work of athletes and coaches, the team has seen some success in the 4x400m relay.
“The huge benefit of what next season looks like is three of our four participants in that [winning relay team] are going to be returning athletes,” Wadlow says. “I think they understood that kind of work level and what potential they had, so they’re setting [the] bar higher.”