Schuyler Central High School track and field season is here. Rick Carter is a mathematics teacher who is also the head boys track coach. This is his 17th year coaching track and field. Rick Carter coached at Stanton Middle School for two years prior to coaching in Schuyler. In high school, he ran distance events. “The school I went to did not have a track program. I would train with the nearby Class A schools,” Carter stated. 

As Covid came around it also delayed many plans. Around the time the pandemic started, spring sports were about to start and then were cancelled. “I think the biggest challenge for some will be just trying to get back into the groove after missing the season last year,” Coach Carter explained. 

Track and Field consist of many events. One student is allowed to compete in four different events whether they are field events or running events. Many try to reach their personal record and throw farther or jump higher than before. “My favorite thing about track is that each day I learn new things and that I get to get to know people better,”Alexia Marino claimed. The events she does are hurdles and sprints.  “I feel like this season I have improved so much. It’s nice being able to show people what you’re good at,“ Alexis stated. Alexis runs the 4×8 relay, 1600, and the 3200 meter. 

Coach Carter’s favorite thing about coaching Track and Field is seeing the athletes improve throughout the season. “If they are getting better, we as a coaching staff must be doing something right. However, how much they improve comes from how hard they are willing to work” Coach Carter shared.