The Mycenaean

Leesville’s 2024-25 Indoor Track and Field season began on October 30, and will last until mid-February. Tryouts took place during late October and early November, and the team finalized the roster on November 15.

This winter season brings many changes to the team. There is no sprint coach this season, so Coach Gamble is in charge of all running events, including sprints, mid-distance, and long-distance. Because of this merge, sprinters and distance runners train together more often. 

Coach Cobin remains in charge of all throwers. Coach Beck is in charge of jumps and pole vault.

For runners, there is a more apparent division between JV and Varsity in terms of training. Certain practices are Varsity only, and JV athletes are able to move up to Varsity throughout the season.

“Last year we had a sprint team and distance team. This year we just have JV and Varsity, since we only have one coach and don’t have a specified sprint coach,” said Lily Lesher, junior on the track team.

Many aspects of the winter track season are different from the spring season. There are less meets, different events, and of course, colder weather.

“Indoor track is a lot different… because there’s a lot more people and definitely more events… there’s more diversity with what people can do,” said Lesher.

Additionally, indoor meets take place on a 200 meter track — instead of a 400 meter track — located at JDL Fast Track in Winston-Salem, NC. Outdoor meets are occasionally available for athletes.

Many athletes’ goals are to qualify for the State Championship in February. Athletes can go to the State Championship individually or with a relay team.

“My goal this year is to qualify [for States] in the 1000 meter and the 4×800 meter [races],” said Sam Brown, senior on the track team.

Training through the cold months makes athletes tougher and more well-rounded, but it is also an enjoyable experience.

“I’m most excited to go out there and race, do the best I can, and have fun with my teammates,” said Brown.

Leesville’s Indoor Track and Field season is shaping up to be a good one. Keep an eye out as the team works to improve and qualify for the State Championship.